The South Okanagan RCMP detachment is warning residents to make sure their vehicles are secure and empty of valuables after a rash of thefts across the region.
Since April 21, six different thefts have taken place from Penticton down to Osoyoos and none of the vehicles have been recovered so far.
“Often times, the theft of a vehicle is a crime of opportunity,” said Cpl. James Grandy, RCMP spokesperson. “Making sure to lock doors and remove valuables from sight can dramatically reduce the chances of becoming a victim. Additionally, not leaving your vehicle running unattended, or ‘hiding’ keys inside the vehicle.”
The first reported theft involved a company Ford F-150 that was stolen from a worksite on Cedar Street in Okanagan Falls, at some point overnight on April 21.
The next reported theft involved a 2006 Ford F250 with Washington license plates. It was stolen while parked in front of a business on Main Street in Osoyoos on April 24.
On April 27th, a truck, trailer and boat were stolen overnight from a residence on Ash Street, in Okanagan Falls.
Two different pick-ups were stolen in Penticton on April 18. A 2003 Chevrolet Avalanche was stolen from a residence on Government St. and that same day, a 1993 Dodge Ram 2500 pick-up was stolen while parked in front of a residence on Skaha Place.
The last theft currently being investigated involved a 2005 Ford F-350. It was stolen from a business in Oliver and driven out through a fence on April 29.
RCMP has a suspect in the last case captured on video surveillance, who appears to be a Caucasian man wearing a black jacket and hat.
READ MORE: Witnesses sought for cyclist hit-and-run near Penticton hospital
Investigations are currently underway to retrieve the stolen vehicles and arrest those responsible.
With this sudden rash of thefts, police are recommending residents take multiple actions to reduce the risk of becoming a victim.
“Vehicle thefts are on the rise in Southern Okanagan Communities and Penticton RCMP’s Crime Reduction Unit is proactively targeting known auto crime offenders and high theft areas,” said Const. Jesse Byer, Crime Reduction Unit. “Please be vigilant in securing vehicles, taking valuables with you and don’t leave keys inside your vehicle.”
Other RCMP tips for reducing the risk of theft include:
• Never leave anything valuable, like keys, wallets, purses, or shopping bags, in your vehicle.
• Point surveillance cameras toward a view of your vehicle.
• Remove all cash from plain view. Loose change can be an incentive for a thief to break into your vehicle.
• If you must leave bags or valuables in the car, store them in the trunk. Never leave them in plain sight.
• Never leave your vehicle running. It takes seconds for a thief to hop into your car and drive off.
• Park in a well-lit, high-visibility area, or in a secure garage when possible.
• Close and lock all vehicle windows and doors.
• Report any suspicious people or activity around vehicles or residences to police.
For further information on preventing auto crimes, people can visit icbc.com/road-safety/prevent-autocrime.
Anyone with information about the stolen vehicles is asked to call the Penticton RCMP at