RCMP say reports of residential and vehicle break-and-enters in Nanaimo's north end have increased. (Facebook/Thieving Nanaimo)

By Alex Rawnsley

LOCK YOUR DOORS

RCMP report rise in crimes of opportunity in north Nanaimo

Sep 25, 2019 | 3:17 AM

NANAIMO — An area of the city somewhat sheltered from petty thefts has seen a recent increase in crimes of opportunity.

Many of the property crimes in Nanaimo’s north end involved simple theft from unlocked homes and vehicles, according to RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien.

He said complacency is making it too easy for thieves to swipe things like men’s wallets and cell phones.

“These are extremely valuable items and a treasure trove for a criminal if they get a hold of your wallet when it comes to identity theft.”

Prevention is simple, with RCMP recommending residents create a routine to lock their doors and clear all valuables out of vehicles.

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“It’s a hashtag called #9pmRoutine that started in Tampa Bay, Florida.” O’Brien said. “It’s about creating a habit that at 9 p.m. every night, you ensure your doors are locked in your car, valuables are removed. This also includes your home and a quick scan around your neighbourhood.”

Those steps drastically reduce these crimes of opportunity, O’Brien said.

“We know there are criminals who walk our streets every night and they’re simply walking down the street checking doors. If the door is locked, they move on. If the car is unlocked, they go in and take anything in sight.”

Nanaimo RCMP have worked to establish a number of Block Watch programs in the city to help curb this type of crime.

One example along Hammond Bay Road saw previously unreported crimes highlighted, and identified a big problem.

“They hadn’t had any crime reported for about ten years. In the span of two weeks, they had 28 break-and-enters, “O’Brien said. “We looked at the crime analysis and it showed suspects were entering through unlocked garage doors, then into the mud room which was unlocked.”

alex.rawnsley@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @alexrawnsley