Campbell River RCMP has recently noticed a spike in theft of downriggers from boats in the area.
This is a high value item that is often left attached to people boats while parked in front of their homes, Campbell River RCMP spokesperson Const. Sara Clark said. Police often notice an increase of theft during the boating season when the public is using the equipment on a more regular basis. Most downriggers have a serial number written on them.
The RCMP is asking the public to secure items in their boats when left unattended, as well as recording any serial numbers on equipment inside the boat. In the absence of a serial number, identifying marks such as the owner’s initials are also valuable to police in locating stolen goods.
If police are provided with a serial number on stolen items it is much more likely to result in the item being located and returned to the owner, as well as charges being able to be laid in the theft.
If anyone has any information on any of these recent thefts, please contact Campbell River RCMP at (250286-6221 or Crimestoppers at 1(800)222-8477