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Thieves attempt to steal Mill Bay search and rescue vessel

While the theft was unsuccessful, the boat was damaged.
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RCMP are investigating the attempted theft of a marine search and rescue boat in Mill Bay. (Citizen file)

Members of Mill Bay Marine Rescue (Royal Canadian Marine Search and Rescue Station #34) were stunned to discover on Monday that somebody tried to steal their rescue vessel from the dock in Mill Bay where the uniquely coloured yellow and red vessel had been moored.

While the theft was unsuccessful, the boat was damaged.

“The attempted theft took place between Saturday afternoon and Monday morning when the damage was discovered,” according to Island District RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Tammy Douglas. The incident is under investigation by the Shawnigan Lake RCMP.

“RCM-SAR Station #34 responds to marine emergencies covering an area which includes Goldstream Marina to the south, Osborne Bay to the north and Moresby Island to the east,” Douglas said in a press release. “The attempted theft and subsequent damage caused to the vessel will significantly impact the ability to conduct rescues in these local waters.”

Those with information related to this or any other crime in the south end of Cowichan are encouraged to contact the Shawnigan Lake RCMP at 250-743-5514, or to remain anonymous, call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS. (8477). Crime Stoppers pays up to $2,000 for information leading to an arrest.