A string of residential break-ins that began in the Comox Valley appear to have spread to Campbell River, and police believe the culprits may be using GPS trackers to help plan their crimes.
On Wednesday, the Comox Valley RCMP said there had been three residential break-ins within the span of a week.
Now, on Friday, Campbell River RCMP says there have been two similar residential break-ins in the community.
“There is significant information to support the theory that these thieves are targeting the residences of Asian-owned local businesses while the owners are at work,” said Campbell River RCMP Const. Maury Tyre.
“Investigators believe that an organized crime group may be placing GPS trackers on the victims’ vehicles in order to track their whereabouts,” he said.
Earlier this week, the Comox Valley RCMP noted that the suspects may visit a victim’s home before breaking in, and that if the resident was there they would claim they were “at the wrong house.”
Mounties encourage anyone who receives a similar visit from a stranger to call police immediately.
The first break-in of this kind that occurred in Campbell River was reported on March 6 in the 600-block of Garden Way.
The second break-in occurred on March 7 in the 2100-block of Joanne Drive.
“Police are requesting that if you live in the areas of the break-ins and have security cameras, to review your footage and contact police if you find anything suspicious,” said RCMP in a release Friday.
Any witnesses are also asked to contact police. Meanwhlie, any other victims are asked to call the Campbell River RCMP at 250-286-6221.
Mounties have also released several tips on how to protect your home from break-ins, which can be found below:
- Installing security lights and cameras on the exterior of the home acts as a deterrent.
- Double check all doors and windows prior to departing your home for the day.
- Ensure that you have quality locks on all your doors and windows and add stops or pins to prevent prying on any sliding exterior doors.
- If you plan on being away for any length of time ensure that snow removal or lawn care is completed while you are away and have someone check regularly on your home.
- Finally, if your home has high value items within it, it is advisable to store them in a bolted safe and install a security system.
Adam Chan
