A serious rise in residential break-and-enters throughout the region has Vernon-North Okanagan RCMP alerting homeowners and neighbours.
Since Dec. 14, there have been 43 break-and-enters at homes from Enderby to Lumby.
“This is a real spike over the whole detachment area,” said RCMP spokesperson Gord Molendyk. “Generally, on the norm, we have one every two-to-three days.”
Molendyk said thieves have been targeting jewelry and electronic items once inside the homes, and have mainly been gaining access by either a front or rear window.
Similarities between some of the break-ins lead police police the incidents are being committed by “probably just a few individuals,” said Molendyk.
Police are asking everyone to watch out for suspicious activity in your neighbourhoods.
“Watch for vehicles that normally do not park on your street, or might be acting suspiciously like driving slowly on the street or appear to be checking if people are home,” said Molendyk. “We are asking the public to call the police if you see this type of activity. Please record the type of vehicle and plate number if possible.”
Most of the break-ins have occurred during the day, approximately at mid-morning.
