Saanich Police are in the process of investigating a rash of break and enters after homeowners reported finding their houses ransacked after returning from vacation.
Nearly 20 break and enters have been reported in the municipality between March and July 2019.
In each case, the homeowners have been away on vacation when their houses were burglarized.
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Police believe that the thieves are deliberately targeting homes in which they know the residents are on vacation or have gone somewhere for an extended period of time.
In most of the reported cases, the intruders entered the premises through a rear window or door and proceeded to steal cash, jewelry, and liquor.
“Our investigations into these cases has involved extensive work from our Patrol, Street Crime and Intelligence units. Multiple avenues of investigation are being pursued but we are still in need of more information and are asking the community to help,” reads a statement from Saanich Police Sgt. Julie Fast.
“If you have information on who is responsible, please call us at 250-475-4321 or to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.”
People in the area are also advised to contact police if they see someone looking or behaving suspiciously in their neighbourhood.
Basic tips
Authorities have also provided a list of preventive measures you can take to make sure your house is secure while you’re on a trip:
- Ensuring all your doors and windows are closed and locked, regardless of where
they are on your house, high or low, big or small, - Stop paper and parcel deliveries,
- Use motion lights and timers, and ensure your home security system is turned on,
- Tell your trusted neighbours, family, friends and Block Watch Captain that you’ll be away,
- Have someone check on your house regularly, and
- Don’t post your trip on social media until you are home.
Further tips can be found at this website.
