Police this week issued a warning to Oceanside residents after a rash of thefts from vehicles in a single night.
Corporal Jesse Foreman reported police responded to three separate reports of thieves breaking into vehicles overnight on March 5.
These thefts occurred in the Parksville and French Creek area.
Further inquiries revealed that several cars had been entered as thieves spotted loose change and other items of value, including power tools. No witnesses or suspects have been identified thus far.
Foreman noted the thieves didn’t have to work very hard to get the items they spied.
“It is important to note,” he said, “that these vehicles were not forced open, the doors had simply been left unlocked.”
Oceanside RCMP are again reminding the public to take steps to avoid being the victim of crime. To this end, they should lock up their vehicles and remove any items of value.
“It does not matter where you live, opportunistic thieves are looking for small electronics, loose change, tools, garage door openers and anything that can be easily removed,” Foreman said. “Please protect yourself and watch out for suspicious people or activity on your neighbouring properties.”