Nanaimo RCMP have advice for business operators to help 'target-harden' their investments. (File photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By NanaimoNewsNOW staff

rash of break-ins

‘Eighty-five per cent of all crimes are drug related:’ Nanaimo RCMP probe break-ins

Jan 19, 2025 | 9:53 AM

NANAIMO — Thieves have been prowling Nanaimo’s downtown area targeting several businesses, with at least a pair of reports resulting in on-site cash being stolen.

Nanaimo RCMP Res. Cst. Gary O’Brien said since Christmas Day five downtown businesses have been broken into.

“It’s what we call a smash and grab, a crime of opportunity,” Cst. O’Brien told NanaimoNewsNOW.

In two instances, break-ins resulted in cash stolen from registers.

Cst. O’Brien said cash drawers are favoured targets, particularly if they’re closed.

rash of break-ins

'Eighty-five per cent of all crimes are drug related:' Nanaimo RCMP probe break-ins

5h ago

clear skies

Snow remaining noticeably absent in Nanaimo, despite frosty overnight temperatures

9h ago

rare sight

Clear Nanaimo skies offering prime 'planetary parade' viewing

Jan 18, 2025

“That seems to be the preferred item for criminals throughout Nanaimo and the majority of B& E’s is going for them. The key for cash drawers is not to be accessible.”

He said removing cash from business daily, along with leaving the drawer visibly open could be strong enough deterrents to discourage thieves from busting in.

Cst. O’Brien said cash and items that can be sold quickly are invaluable for criminals.

“We know that they’re going after these items because it’s drug-based. Eighty-five per cent of all crimes are drug related.”

Cst. O’Brien said to date police have not made any arrests in connection to the recent downtown area break-ins.

Follow us on Facebook. Join Everything Nanaimo on Facebook and stay connected with everything happening on central Vancouver Island.

info@nanaimonewsnow.com

Follow us on: Twitter (X) | Bluesky | Facebook