Officers with the West Shore RCMP Bike Patrol Unit recovered a stolen e-bike on March 28, 2026, after spotting a suspicious individual near the Galloping Goose Regional Trail in View Royal. The bicycle was returned to its owner, and the suspect involved was arrested and subsequently released on an undertaking.
The incident highlights ongoing concerns regarding bike theft in the region, with police reporting 25 incidents in the West Shore between January 1 and March 31, 2026. While bike theft rates have seen significant declines in neighboring jurisdictions, such as Victoria, where reports reached an 11-year low in 2024, local law enforcement remains focused on recovery and prevention.
To help prevent future thefts, the West Shore RCMP are advising residents to secure their bicycles with high-quality U-locks. They are also encouraging cyclists to register their equipment with 529 Garage. This free online registry is used to help police track and return recovered property, with approximately 15,000 bicycles currently registered across Greater Victoria.
The West Shore RCMP Bike Patrol Unit continues to prioritize property crime, a commitment demonstrated by their recent work in the area, including the recovery of over $10,000 worth of stolen construction equipment in November 2025. The Capital Regional District manages the 55-kilometre trail system where the recent recovery took place, which serves as a vital transportation and recreation link across multiple communities.
