Hello Block Watch Members,
Surrey RCMP is seeking the public’s assistance in identifying suspects involved in a series of pharmacy break and enters that have occurred over the past few months in multiple jurisdictions.
From November 2nd 2015 to January 18th, 2016, there have been twelve break and enters or attempted break and enters to smaller, independent pharmacies in Surrey, Langley, and Abbotsford. Nine of the twelve have occurred in Surrey and investigators believe they are all connected based on the method in which they were committed.
The investigation to date has revealed that the primary target is the safes that are stored inside the pharmacies which contain various narcotics. While the safes are proving to be a successful deterrent to thieves, they are still being targeted and police would like to obtain additional information to identify those responsible.
“Surrey RCMP’s Property Crime Unit has been actively working in consultation with other police jurisdictions to identify the suspects involved,” says Surrey RCMP Corporal Scotty Schumann. “Officers have a number of persons of interest, but are now appealing to the public for additional information.”
Investigators believe that two or more suspects are involved as well as a variety of suspect vehicles including a white Ford pickup, an older blue four door sedan, a Jeep Cherokee, and a silver SUV. The break-ins usually occur in the early morning hours and have sometimes involved suspects breaking into neighbouring businesses in order to gain access to the pharmacies.
“These businesses are reminded to remain vigilant and take the necessary precautions to safeguard their workplaces and property,” says Cpl. Schumann. “If you are out in the early morning hours and notice suspicious activity around these types of locations, please contact your local police department.”
“Protecting the safety of patients and pharmacy professionals and preventing the diversion of drugs is very important to the College,” said Blake Reynolds, Chair of the College of Pharmacists of BC. “Getting the word out about new security measures and time-delay safes in pharmacies across BC will help deter others from targeting pharmacies.”
For more information and tips on protecting your workplace and business please visit the Protect Yourself page on the Surrey RCMP’s website or talk to your local district office crime prevention coordinator. Pharmacy professionals can also review the Community Pharmacy Security Resource Guide provided by the College of Pharmacists of BC.
Committed to serving the Community Your Surrey RCMP is committed to providing a sensitive, responsive, professional policing service for all Surrey communities. For more information about Surrey RCMP Programs & Services, how to Protect Yourself, or our latest News Releases visit www.surrey.rcmp.ca.
ASHLEY SOUSA
CRIME PREVENTION PROGRAMS COORDINATOR
COORDONNATEUR DES PROGRAMMES DE LA PRÉVENTION DU CRIME
Surrey RCMP District 5 | GRC De Surrey District 5
South Surrey