Edson RCMP have noticed an increase in thefts from oil sites throughout Yellowhead County. In efforts to curb the criminal activity, Edson RCMP engaged the Western Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (WAD CRU) who are an Alberta RCMP Unit mandated to target rural property crime. With the assistance of a criminal intelligence analyst, WAD CRU are available to support detachments in Western Alberta and assist them in addressing these crimes.
Between June 13 and 17, 2022, WAD CRU, based out of Grande Prairie, worked in the Edson RCMP jurisdiction in an effort to curb the thefts at oil sites. WAD CRU were able to establish a list of possible suspects responsible for cable thefts on these sites, and conducted surveillance on these suspects throughout the county for five nights.
As a result of these efforts, three known offenders linked to cable thefts were located on outstanding warrants and were arrested.
Edson RCMP are asking for anyone with information in relation to oil site thefts to contact their complaint line at 780-732-8800. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com or by using the "P3 Tips" app available through the Apple App or Google Play Store.