News release
Richmond RCMP arrest 14 during first 2026 “Boost and Bust” retail theft operation
February 24, 2026
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Richmond, British Columbia
From: Richmond RCMP
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Richmond RCMP arrested 14 individuals during a one‑day retail theft enforcement operation on February 15, as part of the detachment’s ongoing “Boost and Bust” initiative targeting property crime in Richmond’s downtown core.
The operation brought together Frontline officers working in plainclothes and Loss Prevention Officers (LPOs) from multiple retail partners across Richmond’s commercial districts. The coordinated approach allowed LPOs to relay real‑time information to a dedicated police surveillance and enforcement team, enabling timely and targeted arrests.
A total of 13 individuals were arrested for alleged retail theft offences. Police will recommend charges in 10 cases. Two of the individuals arrested were youths and will be referred to restorative justice. Social service referrals were offered to all individuals who came into police custody.
A 14th person was taken into custody after officers observed suspicious activity in a store. Police queries revealed the individual was wanted on an outstanding warrant from another jurisdiction, and the person was transferred to the appropriate police agency. The same individual is also a suspect in an earlier theft file, for which investigators will now move forward with recommended charges.
Officers also generated an intelligence file related to two individuals believed to be associated with an organized retail theft group. Follow‑up will be conducted with partner agencies.
Clothing, personal goods and food were among the items most frequently targeted. Recovered merchandise is valued at approximately $3,200.
“Boost and Bust” operations form part of Richmond RCMP’s broader crime‑reduction strategy and are supported by funding through the provincial Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement Program (CSTEP).
“These targeted operations demonstrate the value of intelligence‑led policing and strong partnerships with local retailers,” said Inspector Vaz Kassam, Richmond RCMP Operations Officer. “Retail theft affects businesses, staff and the broader community. By working together, we can disrupt this activity and help maintain a safe environment for everyone who lives, works and shops in Richmond.”
This was the first Boost and Bust operation of 2026. Additional operations are planned regularly throughout the year as Richmond RCMP continues its focus on reducing property crime and supporting community safety.
Richmond RCMP encourages businesses and residents to report suspicious activity promptly. To report a crime in progress, call 9‑1‑1. For non‑emergency matters, contact the Richmond RCMP at 604‑278‑1212.
