The Kelowna RCMP is urging residents to be proactive with their bicycles as there has been an increase in thefts in the city.
During the first six months of 2014, there were 151 bicycle thefts reported to RCMP. During that same period this year, 238 reports have come in to police, representing a 58 per cent increase.
“Though the recent police operation that saw a bicycle ‘chop shop’ dismantled has definitely had a positive effect, it is at best temporary,” said Cst. Steve Holmes. “A greater, longer lasting effect will result when the public takes responsibility for the identification and security of their property.”
The RCMP bike theft prevention program, administered through the RCMP's Community Policing Program, provides a simple to use checklist on which to record your bicycle's information. These free kits are available at any store where bicycles are sold as well as at the Community Policing offices located on KLO Road and on McIntosh Road.
“When you secure your bike correctly you make it less appealing for thieves to steal,” adds Holmes. “When you record your bike's information such as description, serial number, any other unique identifiers, you can provide it to police in the event your bike is stolen. This information can be instantly accessed if police query the serial number for any reason and your bike can be seized and returned.”
If you are a victim of bicycle theft, RCMP encourage reporting the crime as it may result in an arrest and the bike could even be returned if found.
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