Criminals targeting illegal marijuana shops in Vancouver
Posted June 1, 2015 11:42 am.
Last Updated June 1, 2015 11:54 am.
This article is more than 5 years old.
VANCOUVER (NEWS1130) – With more than 80 illegal pot shops operating in the City of Vancouver, police are growing increasingly concerned about the potential for violent robberies.
“What we did see over the weekend is two break-ins to illegal marijuana stores in Vancouver where it appears a vehicle was used to smash through the front of the business,” says VPD Sergeant Randy Fincham.
He adds a gun and a hammer were used in another violent robbery at an illegal shop in Vancouver.
“It highlights the fact that this is a dangerous element and we are concerned for anybody who happens to be in the area when one of these robberies takes place,” Fincham explains.
“Unfortunately, what we have seen with the growth in this industry in Vancouver is that there is a criminal element that is also growing in their intent to both rob and steal from these stores.”
Fincham says all complaints will be looked into by police and suggests business owners notify them if a new marijuana dispensary opens up next door.
