Smithers RCMP received reports of several stolen quads in Telkwa and the Smithers areas.
Police believe the influx of people and their trucks and trailers during the weekend fair were used by experienced criminals as a way to avoid attention while committing the crimes. Police said the brazenness and the fact theft likely occurred in full view of unsuspecting witnesses indicates they were well organized.
Police were called on Sunday about a Saturday night theft of a 2012 red and white Polaris side by side from a semi rural Smithers residence. The side by side was pushed out of the yard and taken without the homeowner hearing or seeing anything.
Police were then called on Monday about a break-in at a business compound in Telkwa over the weekend. A green 2008 Polaris and red 2011 Polaris were taken out of the yard. Evidence suggests the quads were loaded into a trailer or trucks.
The green Polaris was later recovered in Telkwa near the graveyard. Police speculate that the suspects possibly did not have enough room to load both quads.
Another report of a theft on Monday described a utility trailer with a red 2006 Kawasaki quad on it was stolen from a hotel parking lot. The trailer was parked in full view of Highway 16 and the hotel when sometime on Sunday afternoon the suspects pulled up and drove off with the trailer and quad.
The value of all items stolen exceeds $40,000.
With the Telkwa Barbecue this Labour Day weekend, police warn that the suspects may return and try to blend in with visitors. Police ask that people lock and secure their trailers, quads, boats and anything else.
Police also ask people to report suspicious activity or anyone who seems to be scoping yards or residences.
Smithers RCMP can be reached at 250-847-3233. Crimestoppers can be reached anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.