Vehicle key fob programming equipment and drugs seized in Kelowna (photo courtesy of the RCMP)

By Liam Verster

Routine Patrol Leads to Bust

Police seize drugs, vehicle key fob programmer in Kelowna

Jan 10, 2025 | 11:33 AM

A routine patrol in Kelowna led to the seizure of drugs and a vehicle key fob programmer, as well as the recovery of a stolen vehicle.

Kelowna RCMP said its Crime Reduction Unit was patrolling in the area of Burnett Ave. around 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Jan. 9, when officers came across a parked and occupied vehicle with stolen plates.

Officers approached the vehicle and arrested the sole occupant, a 48-year old man known to police.

Mounties then learned that the vehicle, a grey 2022 Honda Civic, was stolen, and a search of the person and the vehicle turned up large quantities of drugs, indicative of street level trafficking, and a vehicle key fob programming kit, both of which were seized as evidence.

“These kits are costly and used by auto dealers and mechanics to program key fobs for vehicles,” Sgt. Scott Powrie with the Crime Reduction Unit, said.

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Police seize drugs, vehicle key fob programmer in Kelowna

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“In the wrong hands, it could be used to assist a would-be thief steal virtually any vehicle that uses a key fob and we are very happy to have recovered it. The kit has been seized as stolen property and we are seeking public assistance in determining where it came from.”

The suspect was released from custody pending further investigation and approval of charges.

Anyone with information about the case was asked to contact the Kelowna RCMP at 250-762-3300.