A Parksville Qualicum Beach resident has reported losing more than $30,000 to a phone fraudster, claiming a relative was involved in an accident and money was required, on May 15. One day later, another resident reported losing $1,700 to a phone fraudster claiming to be from an investment firm.
During the week of May 12 to May 18, the Oceanside RCMP received 289 complaints. Some of the other incidents included:
On May 12, a vehicle was reported vandalized in a secured compound in the 900 block of Fairdowne Road in Parksville. The same day, a construction site break-and-enter was reported with Milwaukee brand batteries and tools stolen in the 100 block of Middleton Avenue in Parksville.
A business break-and-enter was reported with a PVR, video monitor and fuse box for external power reported missing in the 200 block of Island Highway West in Parksville, on May 13. A day later, another business break-and-enter was reported with damage to the building and an ATM in the 700 block of Horne Lake Road in Qualicum Beach. Also May 14, a green Biktrix Juggernaut Classic e-bike was reported stolen in the 100 block of Island Highway West in Parksville.
On May 15, suitcases were reported stolen from a hotel parking lot in the 300 block of Island Highway West in Parksville. Video surveillance led to the apprehension of suspects and the return of the goods. The same day, a bicycle was reported stolen in the 600 block of Banks Avenue West in Parksville. It was located nearby and returned to owner. A catalytic converter was reported stolen from a motorhome in the 1700 block of Alberni Highway in Coombs, also on May 15.
On May 16, a daytime property prowler was reported in the 2200 block of Kerr Road in Coombs. The next day, both B.C licence plates VX515D were reported stolen from a vehicle in the 3500 block of Broom Road in Qualicum Beach. Also May 17, a bicycle was reported stolen with only the front tire and the lock left attached to a secured rack in the 100 block of Jensen Avenue East in Parksville.
An orange cooler and some beer were reported stolen from a camping site in the 100 block of Island Highway East in Parksville on May 18. The same day, a grey-and-blue Giant Faith brand mountain bike was reported stolen from a storage shed in the 600 block of Turner Road in Parksville.
If you see a crime in progress phone 911. The Oceanside RCMP non-emergency number is 250-248-6111 and the detachment is located at 421 Pym Street North, Parksville, with public business hours of 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, except holidays.
