An open mail box in Black Mountain in Kelowna, Dec. 6, 2021.
Image Credit: SUBMITTED/Carol Salzmann
December 06, 2021 - 4:47 PM
Okanagan mailboxes have been the target of thieves in recent weeks.
Penticton RCMP are investigating a rash of thefts from Canada Post mailboxes since Nov. 21, according to an RCMP press release issued today, Dec. 6.
"Criminals who steal mail are targeting pre-paid credit cards, gift cards, cheques and documents that will make it easy for them to access your banking and other personal information," Penticton RCMP spokesperson Const. James Grandy said in the release.
Locations known to have had compromised mailboxes in the city include: Kendall Crescent/Ridgedale Avenue, 650 Duncan Ave. W, Braid Street/Eckhardt Avenue E and Maccleave Avenue/Woodlands Drive.
“We’re actively investigating these thefts, and in the meantime want to encourage the public to attend in person at their local post office to make sure their letters are delivered,” Grandy said. “If one must use one of the community drop off mail boxes, they should consider doing so during the week, and earlier in the day on weekdays. This way, their mail won’t be left inside the box over a weekend."
Canada Post also confirmed there was recent vandalism of mailboxes at sites in the Okanagan, but they couldn't comment further as they are being investigated, said Phil Legault, media relations officer with Canada Post, via email.
Residents in the Black Mountain neighbourhood in Kelowna also reported open mail boxes in recent weeks.
"Customers who believe they have not received a specific piece of mail should contact the sender, who may initiate a claim with Canada Post Customer Service. They should also contact the sender to begin their claim for a refund or have the parcel sent to them again," Legault said.
Canada Post won't disclose how it is preventing thefts as this could hamper security efforts, he said.
Legault said the Canada Post app also allows customers to track their packages and there's also the option to have packages delivered directly to the post office.
"We encourage anyone who witnesses any suspicious activity to immediately inform the authorities and Canada Post Customer Service at 1-866-607-6301," he said.
Canada Post customers concerned about identity fraud can contact the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre at 1-888-495-8501.
To contact a reporter for this story, email Carli Berry or call 250-864-7494 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.
We welcome your comments and opinions on our stories but play nice. We won't censor or delete comments unless they contain off-topic statements or links, unnecessary vulgarity, false facts, spam or obviously fake profiles. If you have any concerns about what you see in comments, email the editor in the link above.
News from © iNFOnews, 2021