Iqaluit (Feb 16/04) - Over the past six months over 100 break-ins have been reported to the Iqaluit RCMP.

The crimes prompted police to set up a task force.

Const. Yvonne Niego, officer in charge of the task force, said the work the officers have been doing is starting to pay off.

"In the last week we've laid 26 charges," she said. "Eighteen of those were for break-ins.

"I think we've caught most of the people responsible for the majority of the crimes," said Niego.

During the investigation, Niego said officers noticed similarities in the perpetrators' tactics.

"Most of them appeared to be incidents of smash and grab. They would smash a window to gain access and take anything within easy access," she said.

Niego explained that in most of the break-ins, the criminals were interested in carvings, liquor, cash and electronic equipment.

While the break-ins occurred throughout Iqaluit, the criminals focused on certain neighbourhoods.

"There would be someone breaking into homes in Tundra Valley, another in Apex or 1000 block," said Niego.

The suspects charged in connection with the incidents are also in the same age group -- in the mid-teens to early 20s. The suspects are also unemployed.

Community support

Niego said the RCMP were able to lay so many charges was because of tips they received from businesses.

"A number of people tried to sell some carvings to some stores. When the stores recognized the items they called us," she said. "From there we were able to make arrests."

Niego is still warning people that they should be vigilant when it comes to protecting their homes and.

"Make sure that all your windows and doors are locked," she said.

"If you see anyone suspicious walking around, report it to the police. Make sure you have an inventory of items in your house."