Richmond RCMP say 15 people were arrested during a single-day operation aimed at curbing retail theft in the city’s downtown core. The targeted enforcement took place on October 18 as part of the detachment’s ongoing “Boost and Bust” initiative.

Police say most of those arrested were from outside the Richmond area, and one person was taken into custody twice at separate locations. Two of the suspects were youth. Officers recovered more than $5,000 worth of stolen goods during the operation.

The “Boost and Bust” initiative is partly funded by the provincial Community Safety and Targeted Enforcement Program, which supports efforts to address repeat property crime and organized retail theft. RCMP officials say operations like this are being increased ahead of the busy holiday season.

Corporal Pierre Beauchamp with the Richmond RCMP Property Crime Unit said retail theft has far-reaching impacts on workers, business owners, and the wider community. He noted that some thefts involve organized groups reselling items such as food and health products through unregulated markets, posing health and safety risks to consumers.

Police say retail theft remains a significant concern in Richmond’s downtown core. Along with enforcement, RCMP officers continue to work with local businesses to strengthen prevention measures, including improved security systems and crime-prevention design.