At least 20 boats were targeted by suspects who vandalized vessels and stole items from boats moored at the Shelter Bay Marina.
The West Kelowna RCMP received a report of a break and enter May 20 at 10:24 a.m., to the fenced compound of the Shelter Bay Marina. The suspects targeted several boats moored in the marina, committing both mischiefs and thefts from the vessels. Police believe that the break in occurred sometime between midnight and 7 a.m..
“Our RCMP boat sustained significant damage to its inflatable pontoon,” said Const. Jesse O’Donaghey, RCMP spokesperson, in a press release.
“The culprits cut out and removed an approximate four- foot long chunk of the vessels pontoon, then damaged parts of its electrical components. Thieves then stole emergency safety equipment from the RCMP vessel including personal floatation devices, flares, a set of a binoculars and a police radio."
The act delays the launch of the RCMP vessel on the waters of Okanagan Lake.
“Local detachments and communities often depend on the RCMP vessel to respond to calls for service," said Const. Rolly Williams, West Kelowna RCMP boat coordinator of the First Nations Policing Unit.
"Now our vessel is dry docked until it can be properly repaired and re stocked."
The two suspects, a man and a woman, were caught on video surveillance which is being analysed by investigators. The suspect man is described as a Caucasian male, in his late 20's. The woman suspect is described as a Caucasian Female, in her early 20s, with blonde hair.
West Kelowna RCMP are continuing their investigation and are seeking the public’s help in identifying both suspects in the photos being released to the public.
Anyone with any information is asked to contact Cst. Rohel Williams of the West Kelowna RCMP at 250-768-2880. Remain anonymous by calling Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477, leaving a tip online at www.crimestoppers.net or by texting your tip to CRIMES (274637) ktown.