A customer shops for fresh meat at an Adonis grocery store in Mississauga, Ont. on Monday, Dec. 16, 2024. THE CANADIAN PRESS/Chris Young

By The Canadian Press

Police in Richmond, B.C., investigating ‘organized’ meat theft after 39 cases

Mar 20, 2026 | 9:09 AM

RICHMOND — Police in Richmond, B.C., are investigating after a series of meat thefts from retail stores that they say may be “organized” crime.

RCMP say that there have been 39 cases of reported theft of meat from stores across the city since December.

While some of the thefts may be opportunistic, Mounties say the pattern and values involved suggest “potential organized activity” where the stolen meat is then resold.

They are also warning consumers not to buy meat from unverified sources, since it may have been handled improperly or the meat may have experienced temperature changes that create potential risks.

Police are also asking residents to be more vigilant while grocery shopping and to report anyone who may be acting suspiciously around the mean products.

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Those who see such activities such as concealing items or loading large quantities of meat into personal bags are asked not to confront people, but rather report them to store staff or police.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published March 20, 2026.

The Canadian Press