With around 80 calls for service on New Year's Eve, Nanaimo RCMP were out in full force to make sure people celebrated the new year safely. (File Photo/NanaimoNewsNOW)

By Jordan Davidson

ring in the new year

Nanaimo RCMP respond to over 80 calls during ‘typical’ New Year’s Eve

Jan 2, 2026 | 12:05 PM

NANAIMO — Much like those celebrating the arrival of 2026, local RCMP also made plans for New Year’s Eve to make sure everyone does so safely and responsibly.

The Nanaimo RCMP responded to around 80 calls for service throughout Thursday evening and into the early morning hours of the new year, ranging from loud parties, fireworks, assaults, and possible impaired drivers.

Res. Cst. Gary O’Brien said they had a lot of officers on the ground for the busy night, including in patrol cars, on bikes, and on foot, patrolling local hot spots.

“A lot of alcohol-fueled events, domestics, fireworks. A lot of check well-being calls as well. This time of the year is tough for a lot of people, and a lot of people are reaching out to ensure their loved ones are safe.”

By the end of the night, O’Brien said 10 people in a range of ages spent the night in their cells after overindulging, while a few others were released into the hands of sober adults.

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Three others were arrested on various warrants and outstanding charges.

At least one driver was given a 24-hour roadside suspension, with police investigating at least one suspected impaired driver, but they were unable to locate them.

O’Brien said they also fielded a lot of calls from people complaining about fireworks.

“A lot of times they get called in, it’s called “shots fired”, but it turns out it’s just some fireworks. Most people were respectful. Unfortunately, again, nobody had permits. I don’t think it ended up in any seizures, but there were some disturbances between neighbours who were quite upset with the antics going on. Our officers dealt with it diplomatically, though.”

Overall, O’Brien said it was a pretty typical evening for them, with no major incidents being reported from local nightclubs and other party spots.

“Overall, it was a very typical evening for us, and we’re hoping that the new year continues in a safe manner.”

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