Owner poses alongside Cst. Ian George with her wheels. (Courtesy BC RCMP)
Proactive patrols and sharp observation skills by the Nanaimo RCMP Bike Unit led to the recovery and return of a high‑value electric bicycle to its grateful owner.
On April 23, officers were conducting patrols in an alleyway off Nicol St when they encountered an individual in possession of a E-bike with an estimated value of at least $4000. The individual in question was known to police and given the circumstances, officers seized the bike from him for sake keeping. Officers ran the serial number, but it was not reported stolen.
Officers then noted at a sticker affixed to the bike for a local bike shop. The shop was called and sure enough they had a copy of the sale based on the serial number and the name and contact details of the purchaser.
Police contacted the owner shortly afterward and confirmed the bike in question was hers. Further investigation confirmed the E‑bike had been stolen over the weekend from her outdoor shed but had not been reported stolen yet.
The owner later attended to the local detachment and happily posed alongside Cst. Ian George with her wheels.
“This is a great example of how proactive patrols by our officers can make a real difference in people’s lives,” said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. “We also want to remind cyclists how important it is to register their bikes, record serial numbers, and keep purchase information. That extra step can be the key to getting your bike back.”
