News release

Kelowna RCMP urges residents to stay alert amid rising bike thefts

August 6, 2025 - Kelowna, British Columbia
From: Kelowna RCMP

Content

August 6, 2025

The Kelowna RCMP is urging residents to take extra precautions with the recent uptake in bicycle thefts across the city. As warmer weather encourages more people to cycle, thieves are increasingly targeting bikes in both residential neighborhoods and public areas.

Over the past six months, bicycle thefts have significantly increased compared to the same period last year. While these incidents can occur at any time of day, during weekdays and daylight hours is when thieves are particularly active. Thieves have been primarily targeting bicycles parked in parking lots, on streets, and in public parks, especially those left unsecured or in low-visibility areas.

“Bicycle theft is a crime of opportunity,” said Cpl. Allison Konsmo, Media Relations Officer for the Kelowna RCMP. “Thieves are often looking for quick access and minimal resistance. We’re encouraging all cyclists to always lock your bike securely, choose well-lit areas, and report any suspicious activity immediately.”

The RCMP recommends the following tips to help prevent bicycle theft:

• Always lock your bike with a high-quality U-lock or heavy-duty chain,
• Secure your bike to a fixed object in well-lit, high-traffic areas,
• Store bikes indoors or in locked garages when not in use,
• Register your bike with websites like  Project 529,
• Take photos of your bike, record the serial number, make, model, speed, value and any other distinguishing factors,
• Take advantage of the free bike valet service offered by the city in the downtown core.

In addition to increased patrols in high-theft areas, the Kelowna RCMP is working with local partners to raise awareness and encourage community reporting. Residents are reminded to call the non-emergency line or use the online reporting tool to report thefts or suspicious behavior.

“We all have a role to play in keeping our community safe,” added Cpl. Konsmo. “By staying alert and taking preventative measures, we can reduce theft and help ensure that Kelowna remains a safe place for cyclists and all members of the community.”

For more information on steps you can take to protect yourself and your bicycle please visit the City of Kelowna’s Community Safety Toolkit. If you are the victim of bicycle theft contact the Kelowna RCMP non-emergency line at 250-762-3300 or online at Online Crime Reporting | Kelowna RCMP (rcmp-grc.gc.ca)

Released by:

Cpl. Allison Konsmo – Media Relations Officer

Kelowna RCMP

1190 Richter St

Kelowna, BC V1Y 2K7

Office: 250-762-3300

Proxy e-mail: E_kelowna_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca

Contacts