Sundre RCMP officers are asking for public tips after a vandalism incident on an oil lease site west of town.
A vehicle was damaged on the lease in the Bearberry area during the night of Aug. 29.
“Some items were also stolen from other vehicles in that area,” said Const. Jason Wierenga.
Cpl. Ryan Hodge, acting commander at the Sundre RCMP detachment, says there has been a spike in the number of thefts from oil and gas sites in recent weeks, with suspects stealing fire extinguishers, wire, monitoring equipment and other items.
“Pretty much if there is something of value they will try to steal it,” said Hodge.
There have been at least four other thefts from oil sites since the Aug. 29 theft.
Police believe the stolen items are likely being sold on the black market outside the Sundre area.
Police are hoping that the public can provide information about the thefts that can, in turn, lead to the identification of suspects and arrests, he said.
Anyone with information about the Aug. 29 theft or other thefts from oil field sites is being encouraged to call Sundre RCMP at 403-638-3675 or Crime Stoppers.