Kelowna RCMP towing a vehicle as part of Operation Barcode (submitted photo)

By Liam Verster

Operation Targeting Shoplifters

Arrests made, items recovered in Kelowna RCMP operation

Dec 10, 2024 | 3:09 PM

Kelowna RCMP’s Operation Barcode saw dozens of people arrested and thousands of dollars in stolen property recovered in under a week.

The operation, ran between December 2 and 7, saw the Community Safety Unit (CSU) work alongside Loss Prevention Officers (LPO’s) and area businesses to target repeat shoplifters in the Central Okanagan.

Over the six-day operation, police arrested 47 people, primarily for shoplifting. Seven of of those people had little to no criminal history and were refered to restorative justice services, while 12 others had outstanding warrants for their arrests.

Police also recovered thousands of dollars in stolen merchandise, towed vehicles, and seized a replica firearm.

“There is a substantial amount of documentation and evidence collection still required, however we anticipate a high number of these reports will be submitted for charge assessment at a later date,” Sgt. Scott Powrie with the RCMP Community Safety Unit, said.

Operation Targeting Shoplifters

Arrests made, items recovered in Kelowna RCMP operation

12h ago

Sexual Assault Retrial

Decision in sexual assault of a minor retrial postponed

14h ago

Fraud Attempts

Vernon Winter Carnival warns of impersonator attempting to defraud vendors

15h ago

“For the time being, most suspects have been released on Undertakings which include a court date and conditions not to attend the business from which they are alleged to have stolen from.

“We strategically wanted to align this project with the busy shopping season to remind these individuals they are not immune from detection even during peak times and that they will get caught. Our ultimate goal is not only to catch shoplifters, we want employees to feel safe at work and supported by the police.”