Alberta RCMP Warn of Spike in Auto Thefts, Provide Prevention Tips
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) in Alberta are warning residents of a recent spike in auto thefts and providing tips on how to prevent becoming a victim.
According to the RCMP, there has been a significant increase in auto thefts across the province in recent months. In the first quarter of 2021, there were 3,284 reported cases of stolen vehicles, a 51% increase compared to the same period last year.
Sergeant Barry Larocque, the acting officer in charge of the Alberta RCMP Auto Theft Unit, stated that the rise in auto thefts is concerning and urged residents to take precautions to protect their vehicles.
The RCMP has identified several factors contributing to the increase in auto thefts, including the use of technology by thieves to bypass vehicle security systems and the high demand for certain vehicle models in the black market.
To combat this issue, the RCMP is advising residents to follow these prevention tips:
1. Always lock your vehicle and take the keys with you, even if you are only leaving it for a short period.
2. Park in well-lit and secure areas, preferably with surveillance cameras.
3. Install an anti-theft device, such as an immobilizer or a steering wheel lock.
4. Do not leave valuables in plain sight in your vehicle, as this can attract thieves.
5. Be cautious when purchasing a used vehicle, as some may have been stolen and resold with fake documents.
The RCMP also recommends registering your vehicle with the Canadian Police Information Centre (CPIC) and keeping a record of your vehicle identification number (VIN) and license plate number.
In addition to these prevention tips, the RCMP is also working with other law enforcement agencies and partners to target organized crime groups involved in auto thefts.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious activity or information related to auto thefts to their local police or Crime Stoppers.
The RCMP is committed to keeping communities safe and is asking for the public’s cooperation in preventing auto thefts. By following these prevention tips and staying vigilant, we can all play a role in reducing the number of stolen vehicles in Alberta.
