Nanaimo RCMP’s special investigations and targeted enforcement team has recovered three "high-value" bikes in recent weeks and returned all of them to their owners.
According to a Nanaimo RCMP press release, three bikes valued collectively at $10,000, including one full-suspension mountain bike and one electric bike, were found and returned to their owners thanks to proactive patrols by officers with Nanaimo RCMP’s SITE unit.
The officers conducted patrols in "high crime and disorder areas," where they observed known repeat property offenders in possession of expensive-looking bikes. In all instances, the officers had prior knowledge because the bike owners previously reported the thefts and provided quality photos of the bikes and serial numbers. The bikes were located June 12, June 25 and July 24 on Wesley Street, in Harewood and on Dufferin Crescent.
Three suspects, age 35 to 49, were arrested for possession of stolen property and the bikes were seized.
“We would be remiss in not reminding cyclists to always take pictures of their bikes, including serial numbers, and to lock their bikes when they are left in public areas,” said reserve Const.Gary O’Brien, Nanaimo RCMP spokesperson, in the release. “Also, if the bike is stolen to report the theft to the police with pictures as soon as possible.”
