Power tools were among items stolen in break-in thefts in and around downtown Nanaimo last month.
In a press release, Nanaimo RCMP advised of the “crimes of opportunity” and asked the public to be mindful and take appropriate measures.
In the early-morning hours on July 16, a shed in the backyard of a residence in the 300 block of Kennedy St, saw its lock pried off, stated the press release, and a Stihl FS110 brush weed eater, a gas-powered Stihl chainsaw in an orange case and a men’s grey Cannondale road bicycle were taken (file No. 2022-24404). The complainant said they heard voices at the time, but didn’t think anything of it, the press release said.
On July 19, a shed in the 100 block of Kennedy St. was broken into, with its door pried open, said police. In the incident (file No. 2022-24832), a yellow Dewalt saw and a blue Makita two-gallon compressor were stolen.
As Kennedy Street, and other streets in the area around the Old City Quarter, have back lanes, it provides thieves with access to backyards and sheds, noted the press release. People should “consider reinforcing the lock to [sheds], installing sensor lights and placing locks on back gates,” police advise. In addition, serial numbers of valuables should be recorded and items photographed.
Summer is a season where there is a spike in crimes of opportunity, stated the press release. In addition to using locks and sensor lights, police advise people to scare away thieves by turning on lights or making noise if they hear something late at night.
Anyone with information on these, or any other, crimes is asked to call Nanaimo RCMP’s non-emergency line at 250-754-2345.
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