Times Chronicle Staff

A concerning rise in business break-ins has the Oliver RCMP stepping up its game.

“I can assure you that the evidence gathered at a number of scenes will lead to the identification of those responsible,” said Sgt. Don Wrigglesworth.

The latest batch of crimes occurred on Nov. 12 and 14.

On Nov. 12 at 6:10 a.m., the manager of a store in the 6300 block of Main Street reported being broken into sometime overnight. The front door glass had been smashed but no cash was on site. Instead, food and other items were stolen. The matter remains under investigation with video footage. Wrigglesworth said that  forensic evidence will be examined to potentially identify a suspect.

On the same day at 7:04 a.m., a complainant contacted police reporting the front glass door at another business on Main Street had been smashed. Police attended and confirmed a break and enter. Video footage showed a lone male break the glass and enter through the front door. The front desk was rummaged and several items were taken. There was no cash on site.

On Nov. 14 at 8:30 a.m., police received a report of a break and enter to a business in the 8500 block of Highway 97 at Gallagher Lake. The office building had been entered by damaging the front door handle.  Police report that desk drawers were broken into and rummaged through as well as a work vehicle containing tools.

Wrigglesworth said it is unclear what,if anything was taken.

“The Forensic Identification Section attended and seized evidence that may identify a suspect,” he said.

Wrigglesworth acknowledged that the continuation of business break-ins over the past six weeks is very concerning to police.

That’s why the RCMP remind everyone to be vigilant in protecting their property.

“Ensure that your video surveillance is in working order, that your business alarm is set and keep an eye out.”

Although local police have had success in arresting the culprits responsible for a number of recent incidents, there are “still individuals in our community that are active in committing criminal acts,” the commander said.