Nanaimo RCMP launch bait boat in response to theft epidemic
NANAIMO — A new tool has been added to fight the huge problem of stolen boats from Nanaimo’s waterfront, which has plagued the inner harbour for several months.
Nanaimo RCMP Cst. Mike Eckert said a bait boat has been placed in the water as part of a pilot project aimed at nabbing thieves and discouraging heists. He said an alarming 16 boats were stolen since May, primarily in the Boat Basin marina.
He said their bait boat, launched in partnership with the Nanaimo Port Authority, includes GPS tracking capability to detail where a thief is headed.
Eckert said far too many boats are under-secured while moored at local marinas, which thieves thrive on.