Yellowknife (Feb 10/06) - Ten youths have been arrested in the latest wave of snowmobile thefts to hit the city.

According to RCMP, 26 machines have been stolen so far this year.

"In order to prevent your machine from being stolen, it must be secured with a chain or cable or inside a shed," Const. Colleen Werrell said.

"It is not enough to remove a spark plug or park your machine in front of your house."

On Tuesday, seven male youths were arrested for the recent thefts as well as several residential break and enters.

Two of the youth arrested this week face charges in connection with earlier snowmachine thefts and new charges are expected.

Charges are also pending against the other five males.

In addition, three female youths have been charged with theft of snowmobiles.

A comparison shows that during the same time span in January 2004, only two snowmobile thefts were reported, while in 2005 one was stolen in the month of January.