Thieves are sawing off catalytic convertors from cars while their owners picnic at Sasamat Lake.
Port Moody Police Department says thieves have snatched seven catalytic converters in the city in August, with most of the thefts occurring in parking lots at the lake in Belcarra Regional Park.
Officers investigated and determined all seven occurred in broad daylight and have since increased patrols.
“It is unusual for this type of crime to be occurring during the day in such a public venue," explains PMPD Const. Sam Zacharias in a news release today (Aug. 17).
“We are reminding park visitors to call police right away if they observe any suspicious person or persons. Additionally, anyone with information about these incidents is asked to call police.”
Additionally, PMPD were called to Sasamat Lake last Thursday (Aug. 13) when a member of the public reported a man walking around the area with handgun in his waistband.
Police say charges are being recommended after they located and arrested the suspect, and found a replica gun and bear mace on his person.
PMPD adds the man was also in breach of a court-ordered condition.
"There is no need to be in possession of weapons (real or replica) at our parks," the department notes in a social media post.
Anyone with more information about suspicious activity at Sasamat Lake — or in any neighborhood within its jurisdiction — is encouraged to call Port Moody police at 604-461-3456.
