News release

Mounties respond to Break and Enter on Waterfront Vessel

February 3, 2026 - Nanaimo, British Columbia
From: Nanaimo RCMP

Content

On February 1, 2026, Nanaimo RCMP arrested an adult man following a series of incidents that began with an attempted theft at a grocery store and concluded with an alleged break‑and‑enter on a privately owned vessel along the Nanaimo waterfront. The incident began approximately 2:45 PM at Thrifty Foods located in the Port Place Mall.

Earlier in the afternoon, staff at Thrifty Foods reported that a man had attempted to leave the store with unpaid merchandise. When confronted by store security, the individual allegedly threatened a Loss Prevention Officer. 

A short time later, the same individual was seen boarding a privately owned tugboat moored nearby. Officers responded. However, the person reportedly barricaded himself inside the vessel, directed threats at the officers and refused to leave. 

Frontline officers established containment around the vessel and monitored the situation. Due to the barricaded nature of the incident and possibility of violence, RCMP specialized units which included, the RCMP Emergency Response Team, Police Dog Services, RCMP Negotiators and RCMP West Coast RCMP Marine Services, were deployed. At approximately 5::30 PM, the suspect was taken into custody.  

“This safe and outcome in this precarious marine environment was the direct result of disciplined coordination between RCMP frontline members, specialized units, and our partners. The integration of West Coast RCMP Marine Services with Nanaimo Port Authority, Nanaimo Fire Rescue, and BC Ambulance Service allowed for a swift, controlled, and effective response.” Stated Inspector Donovan Tait, Operations Officers, Nanaimo RCMP.

The suspect was arrested on charges of Break and Enter, and two counts of Mischief. A detailed report of the incident will be forwarded to Crown Counsel for consideration of charges. He remains in police custody.

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