The Golden-Field RCMP is warning residents of “porch pirates”, individuals who steal parcels and packages that are left at doorsteps.
RCMP said these kinds of thefts are more active this time of year.
According to the 2024 FedEx Canada Holiday Shopping Survey, 24 per cent of respondents who have ever been the victims of package theft stated that the amount of goods stolen in the past 12 months was more than what was stolen in the past.
Also, 29 per cent of porch pirate victims in the past 12 months reported that the thefts occurred while someone was home. 13 per cent caught the crime on video themselves, with four per cent stating a neighbour captured the theft on camera.
“Tracking shipments and checking delivery notifications is the most common way of protecting from package theft, and three-in-five (61 per cent) shoppers say they do this,” suggested FedEx.
The RCMP is urging shoppers to track packages closely, have items delivered to your workplace or a trusted neighbour and install a door camera if possible. If you see suspicious activity around mailboxes or porches, report it to the RCMP non-emergency line.
