The community is still in shock.
From 3:30 to 8:30 a.m. on Sunday, three break-ins were reported in the rural municipality of North Norfolk, located west of Portage la Prairie. Surveillance footage captured a group of individuals armed with firearms who entered properties, stole various items, and then fled the scene.
Shawn Klippenstein's farm is in MacGregor, and he was one of the individuals who was robbed. On Sunday at around 6 a.m., a 17-year-old girl from Sandy Bay First Nation was arrested, and the investigation continues.
Paul Manaigre is with the RCMP and says it doesn't matter where you live, it's crucial to safeguard your property.
"It's irrelevant where you live. You need to secure your vehicles, don't leave your wallet or keys in the vehicle, and lock it," said Manaigre. "Many of these crimes in rural areas are crimes of opportunity."
Manaigre worked at the Dauphin Detachment for five years and understands the crime rate has gone up in the City of Dauphin, however, he believes people are making it far too easy on criminals.
"Most times, thieves are lazy. If the place is secured and locked, they'll move onto the next place because they know they will find somewhere that isn't secured," offered Manaigre. "Usually, you will see that in small communities, such as Gilbert Plains, Grandview, Laurier, Ste. Rose, to name a few. They'll go from driveway to driveway and know they'll eventually find one, and they'll look for cash or any other belongings."
Paul said it's critical to lock your doors to make a thief's life as difficult as possible. He also says that lights are very beneficial on properties.
"Illumination is very important. Today, with technology, surveillance cameras are the best defence you can have," continued Manaigre. "People have million-dollar farming operations that need protection. Whether you're property is big or small, invest in technology to protect it."
On Wednesday, the Manitoba government, in partnership with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), invested $2 million to expand Manitoba's Operational Communication Centre (MOCC) to strengthen law enforcement's ability to respond to violent crimes and critical incidents.
MOCC is the intake and dispatch command centre for all incoming calls for Manitobans to report an emergency to RCMP. The $2 million in additional funding will add six new RCMP officers and ten public servant dispatchers to expand the Operational Communications Centre and allow 24-7 risk management operational support for law enforcement, allowing the RCMP to better connect with Manitobans and ensure their safety quickly.
Manaigre also wants to stress the importance of reporting crimes, regardless of whether you believe they're small or not.
"Report everything. It could be something minor that happened on your property overnight, but you should always report it," continued Manaigre. "It could be a trend with 15 other victims. We work on information, our job is dependant on the public. Small or big, call the RCMP."
Protect your property by locking your doors, turning on your lights, and taking steps to discourage thieves.
