The Nakusp RCMP is warning homeowners in the rural area to make sure their properties are secure and being monitored after a series of break-ins over the past two weeks.
Cpl. Ryan Fehler issued the warning after three break and enters occurred at properties south of Nakusp in recent weeks.
The first incident occurred at a home on Highway 6 just south of Burton sometime between March 24–25. Neighbours of the property reported that the suspects broke into a shed, cabin and trailer, causing damage to doors and window. The perpetrators made off with two Stihl chain saws.
The second incident took place at J&S Snacks in Fauquier sometime late on March 29 or early on March 30. According to the property owner, someone broke into the building and stole tobacco and an undisclosed amount of money.
The final incident took place on the 5000 block of Highway 6 south of Burton sometime between April 4–6. The property owners were out of town when their home was broken into. Liquor and other personal items were stolen.
Cpl. Fehler said there were no indications the incidents were related, but that was a consideration in the investigation.
"There's nothing to indicate they're connected but we had problems with some thefts and break and enters last spring," he said. "If you start have incidents in a certain area, you keep that as a consideration."
While all three properties were locked, Fehler still said it was important to for homeowners to make sure they secure their homes while they're away and have neighbours check up on them.
"Sometimes properties are owned by people from out of town," he said. "If (someone is) casing the place, they have a little bit of time to get in there when neighbours won't see them."
Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to call the Nakusp RCMP at 250-265-3677 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.