Aided from the air by an RCMP helicopter and with multiple officers on the ground, the Nanaimo RCMP impounded 4 dirt bikes and 3 vehicles for a wide range of driving offences. The campaign ran from 10 AM to 9 PM on Sunday September 14, 2025, and focused on key areas throughout the city.

“Over the past several months, numerous complaints were received from the public over the blatant disregard for the rules of the road by a small group of individuals. From street racing to stunting to riding on sidewalks, these people were not only putting themselves at risk but the motoring public also. The public let us know they were not happy, and we heard them loud and clear. The enforcement campaign marked several weeks of planning that saw upwards of ten officers from various sections in Nanaimo (General Duty, SITE and Municipal Traffic) along with officers from the Integrated Road Safety Unit (IRSU), and the RCMP helicopter (Air 8) come together, for a campaign of targeted enforcement.

Throughout the day, areas such as Jack Point, Extension, University Heights and the Nanaimo Parkway were targeted. Numerous charges under the Motor Vehicle Act (MVA) were laid resulting in the following: No drivers licence x 3, No Insurance x 5, Use Electronic Device, Speed x 6, No seatbelt, Drive without Consideration and others. Several vehicles were removed from the road due to significant defects found on their vehicle and three vehicles were impounded for excessive speed.

“Air 8 was instrumental to the success of the initiative by providing real time data on vehicle location,” said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP. In one incident, an unidentified youth operating an uninsured motorcycle failed to stop for police and sped off at a high rate of speed. Officers did not pursue due to the risk it posed to the motoring public. Relying on Air 8 to provide updates and locations, the bike and rider were eventually located at a traffic light, allowing officers to safely approach and take the youth into custody. The youth turned out to be 16 years old, “said O’Brien. The youth had his bike impounded and he was turned over to his parents. He also received significant fines under the MVA.

“Over all the officers were pleased with results. They also commented that throughout the day, many passing motorists honked, provided a thumbs up and shouted words of praise and encouragement for their actions. “Said O’Brien.