RCMP have charged a Surrey couple, a man, 40, and a woman, 22, with theft under $5,000, two counts of possession of stolen property under $5,000 and possession of break-in instruments. In addition, the woman was charged with two counts of breach of undertaking, driving without insurance and having no driver's licence.
The charges stem from an incident Aug. 29 when local RCMP got a report of a stolen dirt bike from a Gibsons' property. Thieves had allegedly entered an open shed and cut the chain securing the bike. There was also an unsuccessful attempt to steal an ATV.
Later that day, police received a tip from someone who saw the dirt bike in a van at Langdale Ferry Terminal. The van and suspects were subsequently apprehended on Logan Road after departing the ferry terminal due to a ferry wait.
"We are seeing a growing trend in property-related crimes being committed on the Sunshine Coast by Lower Mainland criminals, whether it be copper-wire theft, break-ins or theft from vehicles. Because of this, the public needs to take extra measures in not only ensuring their property, vehicles and houses are secure, but to report all suspicious behaviour to police immediately," Cp. Steve Chubey said.
The couple was also allegedly selling diesel suspected of being stolen to locals at discounted prices. Police suspect the Surrey couple may be involved in diesel fuel-siphoning thefts and urge the public to come forward with any information.
