The Nanaimo RCMP are investigating after a service truck and a 20-ton wood splitter were stolen from the property of a local nursery early Thursday morning.
Police say the theft took place at around 4:40 a.m. on Feb. 4 at the Green Thumb Nursery located on Hammond Bay Road.
Security cameras were activated as the truck and wood splitter were being driven out the front gate, according to RCMP.
“It appeared thieves entered the nursery by climbing over the perimeter fence on the north side of the property,” reads a statement from Nanaimo RCMP. “Once on the property, one of their sheds was rummaged through until such time keys for the truck were found.”
Police are describing the stolen vehicle as a late 80’s burgundy coloured Ford Ranger pickup with over fifty assorted stickers attached to the rear window. Police highlight that the truck was only used for work in the nursery.
RCMP officers also say that the truck had no insurance, no plates and was in poor mechanical condition. Owners at the Green Thumb Nursery add that they are doubtful the truck could have been driven a significant distance.
Once the truck left the premises, police are unsure which direction it travelled.
The yellow wood splitter (represented in the stock photo below) was loaded into the back of the truck.
Investigators say they did find evidence by the front gate, which was most likely left behind by an individual standing lookout during the break and enter.
Anyone with information on this incident is being asked to call the Nanaimo RCMP non-emergency line at 250-754-2345 and quote file # 2021-4078.
Stock photo of a wood splitter, similar to the one that was stolen.
Graham Cox
