A suspect known to Port Moody police (PMPD) could soon face charges after several jerry cans filled with stolen fuel were seized over the long weekend.
Charges related to breaking and entering are being recommended by police against a man in his 50s, said PMPD spokesperson Const. Sam Zacharias in a news release today (Aug. 9).
He explained the haul of 11 jerry cans was discovered in plain sight near Murray Street by a front-line officer while conducting foot patrols last Saturday (Aug. 5).
They were seen aboard a "suspicious" vehicle around 2:30 a.m. and a man was found hiding not far from the scene.
An investigation that ensued uncovered more than 120 litres of gasoline taken from a nearby industrial property whose supply had been tampered with.
"It's not uncommon to see increases in property crime during the summer months, though this particular incident is quite unusual," added Zacharias.
"Of note, we have seen upticks in bicycle and catalytic converter thefts over the past two months."
The stolen fuel was found inside seven of the 11 jerry cans seized by PMPD, Zacharias noted.
The suspect was arrested and "multiple" break-in related charges have been sent to Crown Counsel for consideration and potential approval.
Zacharias said this specific form of theft, among others, can be difficult to prevent.
However, he believes the public should continue to be on alert and report anything odd or suspicious to police immediately.
Anyone with more information on suspicious activity in the community is urged to call PMPD at 604-461-3456.
