Downtown Nanaimo is empty and shops are boarded up as the COVID-19 pandemic takes its toll. (Alex Rawnsley/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

CRIMES OF OPPORTUNITY

Nanaimo RCMP see uptick in commercial, vehicle ‘smash and grabs’ during COVID-19 shutdown

Mar 31, 2020 | 12:18 PM

NANAIMO — Local police say the number of smash and grabs from vehicles and businesses in increasing.

A business on Fifth St. was vandalized on Tuesday, March 24 by having its front window smashed in. Three days later, a compound by the Nanaimo Parks and Recreation building on Nanaimo River Rd. was accessed by thieves who broke into several locked cars and stole tools.

Nanaimo RCMP Cst. Gary O’Brien said businesses are at an increased risk during the COVID-19 pandemic shutdown, with many closing their doors to wait it out.

“We’re shifting our priorities almost on a daily basis, but we’re certainly augmenting our front line resources and we are keeping an eye on the commercial businesses throughout the city,” O’Brien said.

RCMP recommend removing all cash from a business and taking any valuables out of storefront windows to prevent quick smash and grabs.

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Vehicle-related crimes have increased, despite many people being at home near their cars.

“A lot of people are still not keeping an eye on the streets, they’re very preoccupied in their homes,” O’Brien said. “Before you retire for the night, check your cars and make sure they’re locked. Scan your neighbourhoods as well.”

O’Brien said these are typically crimes of opportunity and if a thief doesn’t see something enticing in a car, they will often move on.

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