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New Westminster – Transit Police have arrested two men in connection with an alleged organized theft operation after a search warrant executed on a Burnaby residence revealed over 800 stolen items from popular retailer lululemon, with a retail value of nearly $100,000.
On April 14, 2024, Transit Police patrol officers arrested a 39-year old man from Vancouver for Theft Over $5,000 at Metrotown SkyTrain Station just before 9:00 pm. They had been alerted to the suspect’s alleged shoplifting routine, including his dependence on using SkyTrain as his getaway vehicle, by Asset Protection Officers at lululemon. Patrol officers in plain clothes intercepted the alleged thief as he tried to make his getaway.
During the course of their investigation, and utilizing technology capabilities from lululemon, officers discovered that the suspect was allegedly involved in a large scale, organized theft operation, targeting lululemon stores across the Lower Mainland. The operation used Facebook Marketplace to sell a large volume of the stolen merchandise to online buyers, meeting them along the SkyTrain system for the exchange.
On July 26, 2024, two further arrests were made, following the execution of an arrest warrant at a residence in the 4200 block of Sardis Street in Burnaby, a 39-year old man and a 34-year old man, both residents of Burnaby, were arrested on charges of Trafficking in Property Obtained by Crime and Possession of Property obtained by Crime over $5,000. In addition, the following items were seized:
“We are hopeful that a clear message has been sent to would-be criminals that attempting to conduct criminal activity along the transit system, or using public transit to further their criminal activities, will not be tolerated. Transit Police is dedicated to bringing anyone who would engage in this behavior to justice. We also ask that the public pause to consider that any high-quality product being sold at a discount rate online by a third party may be stolen.” – Constable Amanda Steed
“We take our role in helping to create a safe and secure environment very seriously, and today’s announcement underscores the effectiveness of our partnership with law enforcement and investments in advanced technology and case-building capabilities to combat retail crime and hold perpetrators accountable. We remain committed to continuing these efforts to address and prevent this important industry-wide issue.” – Tristen Shields, Vice President, Asset Protection, lululemon
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