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As warm weather returns, the RCMP is reminding Kelowna residents to secure their bikes.

Officers have been seizing and returning stolen bikes on a daily basis.

In the week between April 26 and May 2, 2020, the Kelowna RCMP Community Safety Unit returned over $10,000 worth of stolen bikes to their owners.

Residents are encouraged to practice the following measures:

Record:

• Record your bike’s serial number
• Photograph your bike
• Use a public bicycle registration such as 529 Garage
• Engrave or mark your bike with something specific like your driver’s license number

Lock:

• Never leave your bike unlocked
• Use a high quality lock
• Take the extra step and remove the seat or a wheel as an extra deterrent
• Whenever possible, avoid leaving your bike in an underground parking structure- they are a favourite target for bike thieves
• Avoid leaving your bike on or in your vehicle if possible - If you must leave your bikes unattended in the back of a vehicle, lock the bikes to your vehicle

Report:

• If your bicycle is stolen, report it to the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300 or online via the online crime-reporting tool with the serial number and description

The RCMP is using several methods of enforcement to hold thieves accountable, including bait bikes.

"The Kelowna Community Safety Unit will continue to pursue active property offenders using innovative tactics on a regular basis,” Const. Michael Gauthier of the Kelowna RCMP said in a press release.

"We know these crimes affect many citizens in our community, we take them seriously and we will continue to do everything we can to stop these trends."

To contact a reporter for this story, email Brie Welton or call (250) 819-3723 or email the editor. You can also submit photos, videos or news tips to the newsroom and be entered to win a monthly prize draw.

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