The Penticton South Okanagan Similkameen RCMP would like citizens to be aware of a current crime trend. Currently, the South Okanagan has been seeing an increase in vehicle thefts where thieves are targeting 2000s Dodge Trucks. The thefts are generally occurring between 11:00 PM and 4:00 AM, and in most cases, punching the vehicle ignitions.

Thieves have also been stealing or swamping license plates on recently stolen vehicles to make police detection more difficult. It’s a good idea to check the license plate on your vehicle frequently to ensure the plate on your vehicle is yours and has not been replaced with a license plate from a stolen vehicle.

Just a reminder to lock your vehicles whenever you are away from them and do not leave your keys (or a spare key) in the vehicle.

Make things more difficult for thieves and follow these additional tips:

• Whenever possible, park your vehicle in a well-lit location. Most sensor lights at home in close proximity to where you park your vehicle.
• Consider using after market anti-theft devices such as steering wheel locks, tracking systems; and/or anti-theft dash cameras.
• Do not leave documents or identification in your vehicle, such as your driver’s license, passport or any others with your personal information on it.
• Do not store valuables in your vehicle.

Report any suspicious activity, thefts of vehicle or license plates to your local RCMP Detachment or online at https://report.rcmp.ca/.

If you have information related to these vehicle thefts and wish to remain anonymous you can call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-8477(TIPS) or online at www.sostips.ca.