Break-and-enters to commercial properties in Nanaimo have been spiking, with 25 reported from Jan. 1-8 — up from eight at the same time in 2023, say Nanaimo RCMP.
No residential break-ins have been reported so far this year.
The string of incidents began Jan. 1 in the 400-block of Campbell Street when power tools were stolen from two constructions sites.
The next day, tools were also stolen from Coast Distributors in Lantzville after the chain-link fence around the property was cut, and on Jan. 3, the front door at a Dover Road daycare was smashed and two computers taken.
A chain-link fence at Nanaimo-Ladysmith School District headquarters was cut Jan. 6 and tools were taken, as well.
Police recommended that business owners ensure all valuable items are identified with a unique number or word so that they can be easily identified if stolen, and that businesses with compounds install security devices such as motion-detection alarms.
Anyone who sees someone in or near a fenced compound or construction area after hours is advised to contact police immediately.
Contact Nanaimo RCMP with any information on recent break-and-enters at 250-754-2345.
