With gas prices hitting record highs across the Lower Mainland, worries about gas concerns have been on the rise.
Agassiz RCMP spokesperson Sgt. Mike Sargent said as of Thursday, March 17, there has been one reported incident of fuel theft. However, given the sustained high prices, there is the possibility of further incidents in the area.
Sargent said the best way to prevent fuel theft would be to park vehicles in secure areas or garages wherever and whenever possible and to report suspicious activity to the RCMP by calling 604-796-2211.
RELATED: Thieves target vehicle gas tanks in Kamloops as petrol prices soar
Broad economic sections sanctions against Russia as a result of the ongoing Russia-Ukraine conflict are blamed for putting additional pressure on the global oil supply, which caused a significant spike in prices.
Reports of fuel theft have been trending upward elsewhere in the province and the country. In Kamloops, Mounties have been investigating multiple incidents where thieves drilled holes in gas takes to extract fuel; there was also a series of similar crimes in Kamloops and throughout the Okanagan in 2019.
Kamloops RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Dana Napier also suggested using a locking fuel cap and being mindful of leaks or smells of gasoline near parked vehicles.
RELATED: Police, convenience store industry prepare for gas thefts as prices continue to rise
In addition to theft from everyday motorists, retailers are on high alert for fuel theft. Last week, the Convenience Industry Council of Canada said the high prices have driven up gas-and-dash incidents, prompting the council to stress the need for provincial aid to the industry that’s already trying to economically recover from the COVID-19 pandemic.
– With Files from The Canadian Press and Kamloops This Week
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