News release

Theft from vehicles on the rise

January 9, 2026 - Nanaimo, British Columbia
From: Nanaimo RCMP

Content

The Nanaimo RCMP have released property related offence statistics for 2025. Two categories showing a marked increase from 2024, are theft from vehicles and theft other (sheds, garages, freezers, etc.)

Theft from vehicles increased 15 percent and theft other, increased by 6 percent.” While most categories are trending in the right direction, we felt it necessary to share this information as we all have a part to play in combating property related offences,” said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

To provide some perspective on these numbers, many of the reported thefts involved vehicles parked in local parades, streets and in driveways. Statistics show that unlocked vehicles are the preferred target, as the theft is committed silently. Their second preferred means of accessing vehicles is by using blunt force and smashing out a side window using a rock. Some thefts have occurred a short time after vehicles were parked while other thefts occurred when the vehicle was left unattended for longer periods of time.

Proactively, the Nanaimo Bike Patrol continues to patrol the downtown core and have a good handle on who is involved in criminal activity. Knowing names and faces helps to hold criminals accountable. Community Policing Volunteers are also doing their part by conducting patrols throughout the city and reporting suspicious activity and suspicious persons. The volunteers patrol parking lots, parades and other public places, looking for vehicles with valuables left inside. If such a vehicle is found, they will complete a Lock it or Loose pamphlet, then attach it to the windshield as a reminder for the driver.

The following are some tips to consider when parking vehicles:

• Never leave anything in plain view in a vehicle
• Always lock your doors and ensure windows are secure
• Ensure sunroofs are closed
• If possible, park near other vehicles and in well lite areas
• Driveways:

Before retiring for the night, make sure your vehicle is secure and valuables removed. Then, look over at your neighbor’s vehicle and yard. Are the windows rolled up, did they leave a bike or tools lying around. If so, let them know.

• If you get up during the night, make it a habit to look out at the street to see if anyone is moving around. Criminals often use the cover of darkness to carry out their deeds. If it seems suspicious, call the non-emergency line and report it. 

Contacts