Cara Loverock
Northern News Services
Published Friday, August 22, 2008

SOMBA K'E/YELLOWKNIFE - Break and enters into residential homes during the day are on the rise in Yellowknife, according to the RCMP.

Police report they have responded to an increased number of break-ins the past few weeks.

RCMP Sgt. Larry O'Brien said from April to July, the RCMP had only received 13 reports of residential break and enters. However, there have been seven reports so far in August alone, a change O'Brien calls a "dramatic increase."

Homes being targeted are generally set farther back from the street or have doorways sheltered by trees or bushes, RCMP Const. Roxanne Dreilich said.

In all cases RCMP have found the doors were forced open or kicked in and were without deadbolts.

Many residents who have had their homes broken into were missing valuables including jewelry, carvings and cash.

Asked if there is reason to believe the same culprit could be responsible for the recent break-ins, Dreilich said it is possible, but too early in the investigation for police to be sure.

Police are recommending homeowners take precautions such as installing deadbolts, alarm systems and adequate lighting.

For those leaving town for extended periods, Dreilich also recommended "letting your neighbours know you're going to be away and asking them to keep an eye on the place. Just use those extra precautions."

The RCMP is asking anyone with information about the crimes or stolen property to contact police.