Police in Nanaimo are warning residents about an increase in bike thefts after recovering a tourist’s stolen $10,000 mountain bike.
According to a news release from RCMP, the bike was stolen from a vehicle as the tourist was sleeping in the parking lot at the Centennial building in Beban Park.
“Before retiring for the night, he took his wheel off and locked the frame and tire to his roof rack by a cable lock. When he woke, all that was left behind of his bike was a cut cable,” reads the news release.
Police say the bike was recovered withing a couple hours but no suspect was identified and the investigation is ongoing.
RCMP say thieves use bolt cutters and angle grinders to get through locks quickly and say U-locks, heavy duty chain locks, folding locks and cable locks are considered effective for deterring thefts.
“Locks can be expensive but if it prevents your bike from being stolen, it’s worth the expenditure. The best advice is to do some research on what lock works for you and your budget, or drop into a local bike shop and speak to one of their employees,” says Const. Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.
Police suggest using multiple locks if possible and registering bikes with 529 Garage.
