Nanaimo RCMP have arrested a man suspected of stealing poppy donations.
The first theft occurred at the 7-11 at 1602 Bowen Road early on November 3. The theft went unnoticed until a Veteran Affairs representative came by the convenience store to replace the donation tin. Only after reviewing surveillance video did the store clerk realize a crime had taken place.
At 3 p.m. the same day, a donation tin was also stolen from the Beaufort Centre Pharmasave.
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Police believe the same individual is responsible for both thefts.
RCMP received several tips after releasing a picture of the alleged suspect, and a person was arrested on November 5 around 1:30 p.m. He likely faces charges of Theft Under $5000.
“The Nanaimo RCMP would like to thank the public and media for their prompt assistance in identifying the person responsible. Poppy thefts touch a sensitive cord in many people for a variety of reasons. Are members are very pleased they were able to make this arrest in a timely manner,” said Cst. Gary O’Brien in a statement.
Police are reminding local businesses to keep a close watch on donation tins and boxes. They recommend securing them to the counter with a chain or cord.
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