The total number of criminal violations in Nanaimo in 2018 was more than 1,000 higher than the previous year. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

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Nanaimo RCMP grapple with 20% increase in criminal incidents

Aug 1, 2019 | 8:28 AM

NANAIMO — The number of criminal incidents in Nanaimo reached a five-year high in 2018.

Nearly 11,700 confirmed incidents were handled by Nanaimo RCMP, compared to 9,500 the year before.

Nanaimo RCMP have discussed increases in calls for service but not statistics about confirmed incidents and activity. Data from Stats Canada offers one of the few glimpses into the criminal landscape police officers are contending with.

Of the 11,700 incidents, 4,700 were cleared by police.

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Nearly 1,900 people were charged by Nanaimo RCMP, which is the lowest number of people in the last five years.

Throughout presentations to the City of Nanaimo and in comments to NanaimoNewsNOW, police have said increased criminal activity can be attributed to an ongoing drug and mental health crisis.

There are roughly 150 sworn RCMP officers at the Nanaimo detachment as well as civilian officers.

An additional 15 officers over the next five years is planned and funded by the City.

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