Local RCMP were “inundated” with reports of thefts from mailboxes on Monday, March 20, especially in the Eaglecrest community of Qualicum Beach.
Police sent out a news release on Tuesday saying RCMP has received more than 10 reports of damage to and theft from mailboxes.
Residents found the doors to their mailboxes pried open and their mail taken the previous morning.
Police suggested the thefts were targeting tax season.
“With employment information, cheques and T4’s in the mail, unfortunately tax time proves popular for mail thieves,” said Cpl. Jesse Foreman.
RCMP urged residents to collect their mail “every afternoon after delivery. As well, if you are planning a getaway, consider having your mail held or having someone you trust collect it in your absence.”
Mailbox theft is an ongoing issue in the area and into Nanaimo, with RCMP reporting significant mailbox thefts in Feb. 2016.
“It’s a significant issue,” Nanaimo Const. Gary O’Brien said at the time. “(Thieves) target areas where there is hardly any foot traffic, late at night, where they can fade into the bushes.”
While thieves hope to find cash, their focus is turning towards personal information and pieces of ID like credit cards and driver’s licences.
—With files from John McKinley
