Alberta RCMP remind drivers to protect themselves against vehicle theft
EDMONTON – As the weather cools, auto theft heats up.
In a recent RCMP analysis, the 42nd week of 2017 was the most active in terms of reported auto thefts in Alberta RCMP detachments. That is why, in October and November, RCMP detachments across the province will be working with peace officers and local volunteer community groups to remind citizens to secure their vehicles, and to remove valuables and registration out of sight.
“Stolen vehicles are used to commit more property crime, to transport illicit goods and often become hazards on the road,” says Supt. Peter Tewfik, Officer in Charge of Crime Reduction Strategies, Alberta RCMP. “Preventing auto theft is key to our Crime Reduction Strategy and we have seen a decrease in theft of motor vehicles between 2017 and 2018. Anything citizens can do to prevent and deter vehicle theft will go a long way towards reducing crime, overall.”
“Vehicle theft is a crime of opportunity. We are still finding that at least fifty percent of vehicle thefts in Alberta happen because the keys were inside or the car was left running, says Insp. Mike Lokken, Detachment Commander Stony Plain/Spruce Grove/Enoch RCMP.