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Vancouver police make multiple arrests after string of break-ins

File photo An ongoing investigation into a rash of break-ins in South Vancouver has led to more arrests. Vancouver police launched Project Lookout last month after several residents reported that their homes were ransacked and items were missing.

 Two Vancouver police investigations have led to eight arrests after break-ins in Vancouver and Burnaby.File photo

An ongoing investigation into a rash of break-ins in South Vancouver has led to more arrests.

Vancouver police launched Project Lookout last month after several residents reported that their homes were ransacked and items were missing.

“It appears that suspects were circling neighbourhoods looking for potential targets,” Const. Jason Doucette said in a press release. “They would knock on the door, and when no one answered, they forced entry.”

The investigation led to the arrest of four suspects — three men and a woman from Vancouver and Victoria. Each has been charged with one count of break-and-enter. As a result of that investigation, officers were also able to identify additional suspects.

Another initiative, dubbed Project Lights Out, was launched and four more suspects — two Vancouver men, a Burnaby man and a man from Richmond — were arrested earlier this month after officers from the department’s property crime unit watched them allegedly break into homes in Burnaby.

Each is now facing two charges of break-and-enter.

As a result of the investigations, a significant amount of stolen property, valued at more than $100,000, was recovered and additional charges are expected.

“Once Project Lookout was under way, detectives realized there may have been more than one group involved,” Doucette said. “This should send a message to offenders that we will continue to investigate, even after arrests are made, and there is always a possibility of additional arrests and charges.”

Police encourage residents to report suspicious behaviour to 911 immediately. As well, investigators are asking anyone who has been a victim of a break-in, and who has not yet made a police report, to contact police.

@JessicaEKerr

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