For the second time in recent weeks, the RCMP have stated the obvious: there has been a sharp increase in property crime in Whitehorse and the surrounding area, namely break-and-enters and thefts.

From Sept. 1 to last Sunday, 27 break-and-enters to businesses and residences and several thefts have been reported to police in the city, rural neighbourhoods and industrial areas.

At least one case has involved an intruder entering an occupied home.

As well, crime is frequently being cited as an issue by the 20 candidates for the Oct. 21 municipal election.

Police said Tuesday afternoon frontline members have worked with the Detachment General Investigation Section, M Division Forensic Identification Section and M Division Crime Reduction Unit to follow up on reports and gather evidence, including the execution of one search warrant yielding stolen property.

The RCMP have made several arrests related to the crimes since September.

On Sept. 8, Marcus Hickey, 31, of Whitehorse, was arrested and charged with one count of robbery related to a Whitehorse business.

On Sept. 14, officers arrested a local man for suspected robbery related to an offence on Sept. 5 in Whitehorse.

Jade Anthony Miller, 28, was located by police after a warrant was issued for his arrest.

Brandon Webb, 28, of Whitehorse, had been previously arrested as part of this investigation.

Police continue to seek a third person believed to have been involved.

Last Friday, a man was arrested for a suspected break and enter to a Whitehorse business on Sept. 22.

A search warrant was executed related to this investigation in Whitehorse, and police are continuing to collect information to support charges. His name cannot be released at this time as the charges are pending.

If someone finds that a break and enter or theft has occurred at their home or business, police recommend the first priority should be to contact them.

Dispatchers or on-duty officers can provide directions about safety and how to preserve evidence until investigators arrive.

“No matter how minor a theft may seem, information from the public can help police to solve the crime and prevent more offences,” police said.

“Additionally, some property crimes are not being reported to police through regular channels, but are instead being shared to the public at large via social media like Facebook.

“Social media can play a role in solving crimes, but it is important that police be contacted first.”

Insp. Lindsay Ellis, the Whitehorse RCMP detachment commander, said sharing details of offences online “can make it difficult for police to conduct a timely investigation, collect unbiased information in follow-ups, and bring repeat or habitual offenders before the courts.

“When photos of suspects or details about offences are released to the public, it can hinder our investigations and impact the court process.

“The detachment, along with specialized units, are continuing to work with witnesses, victims and community partners to take steps towards crime reduction and utilizing proactive approaches to crime prevention,” Ellis added.

“Investigators are tirelessly following up on leads and appreciate when businesses provide surveillance footage and details, including photographs and serial numbers and when neighbours can provide information to investigators about suspicious behaviour.

“All details provided to police are important.”

Anyone who has been a victim of a property crime in Whitehorse is encouraged to call the RCMP. In an emergency, call 911.

Anyone who wants to provide information about an investigation but prefers to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers at http://www.crimestoppersyukon.ca or via phone at 667-6715.