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Bonnyville RCMP aim to reduce vehicle thefts, crimes of opportunity

RCMP in Bonnyville have wrapped up another Operation Cold Start campaign, aimed at reducing the number of vehicle stolen in the winter months.
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Operation Cold Start information. / Image provided

BONNYVILLE - RCMP in Bonnyville have wrapped up another Operation Cold Start campaign, aimed at reducing the number of vehicle stolen in the winter months.

The effort targets people who leave their vehicle idling in the cold, reminding them to make sure they lock their vehicles.

"This annual campaign focuses on working with the public to address crimes of opportunity that occur when vehicles are left running, unlocked, and unattended," reads information released by Bonnyville RCMP on Jan. 29.

In 2024, Bonnyville RCMP investigated the theft of 171 motor vehicles - about half of those vehicles had the keys left inside.

"These incidents not only caused inconvenience for vehicle owners and occupied police resources, but also posed broader risks to community safety, as stolen vehicles are often used to commit additional crimes or sold to unsuspecting buyers," according to RCMP. 

Operation Cold Start ran from Jan. 20 to Jan. 24. Officers from the Bonnyville RCMP performed various checks during those days. 

"Officers checked unattended idling vehicles to ensure that keys were not left inside and that they were properly secured. Officers also participated in educational efforts to teach the public how to better protect their property," according to RCMP.

Tips to help individuals safeguard their vehicles were provided through the media and through pamphlets that were left on idling vehicles. 

"During the five-day operation, Bonnyville RCMP checked over 155 vehicles, handed out 95 pamphlets and interacted with 38 owners," according to Bonnyville RCMP.

The Bonnyville detachment also has some free steering wheel locks, also known as The Club, to hand out.

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