Police collaborating to solve a recent string of thefts

TABER – RCMP and police services from across southern Alberta are coming together to investigate an increase in stolen vehicles and other related thefts.
 
Over recent weeks, Taber-Vauxhall RCMP have noted an increase in vehicle thefts in and around Barnwell, and in the southern M.D. of Taber.
 
They say the suspects seem to be working in pairs or teams. Typically, the thieves will identify a vehicle, break into it and take anything in plain sight, or occasionally steal the vehicle itself.
 
Tools, firearms, cash, licence plates and trailers are most commonly stolen, many of which cannot be traced, and are then sold to unsuspecting buyers.
 
Taber-Vauxhall RCMP are now working in collaboration with the Coaldale, Picture Butte, Bow Island and Raymond detachments, as well as the Lethbridge and Taber police services where similar thefts have been reported.
 
Anyone with information on these crimes is asked to contact their local RCMP or police detachment, or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
 
Police urge everyone to always ensure vehicles are locked, any valuables are removed or out of sight, to never store spare keys or firearms in vehicles and to not leave vehicles running while unattended.