There has been a significant rise in theft from vehicles over the past few weeks, largely in part due to motorists leaving valuables in their cars this summer.
There has been a considerable amount of reports made to the North Okanagan RCMP of theft from vehicles, occurring both day and night throughout the city and in popular tourist spots.
Photo Credit: File photo
The summer season has brought out both locals and visitors to popular spots throughout the North Okanagan that thieves are now targeting. These locations include public parks such as Kin Beach, Kalamalka Provincial Park and Kekuli Provincial Park, among the few.
“In a recent two week period, we saw a 51% increase in theft from autos when compared to the same period last month,” says Cst. Kelly Brett. “Another area that saw a significant increase was Lumby, with nine incidents being reported over a two week period.”
The RCMP would like to remind motorists to not leave valuables in their vehicles, ensure all doors are locked and windows are rolled up.
What thieves are looking for is opportunity. Vehicle owners are being cautioned to not leave themselves vulnerable to victimization.
Top 10 Most Common Items Stolen from Vehicles:
- Smartphones
- Personal electronics – tablets, laptops, GPS
- Work tools
- Credit cards
- Identification and documents
- Cash and change
- Car parts and accessories
- Garage door openers
- Sunglasses
- Keys
