Dozens arrested in West Kelowna retail crime blitz

West Kelowna RCMP carried out a two-day operation in August targeting shoplifting and retail crime.

More than 30 people were arrested, with charges laid and thousands of dollars worth of stolen goods recovered.

Police also arrested an impaired driver, charged two prohibited drivers and seized more than 150 grams of suspected illegal drugs.

“Retail theft affects more than just the businesses being targeted; it impacts employees, customers and the wider community,” said Cst. Matt MacKay, project lead with the West Kelowna RCMP Crime Reduction Unit in a media release. “The success of this project demonstrates what can be accomplished when police, loss prevention officers and local businesses work together.”