Stolen search and rescue gear bags have been returned: Chilliwack RCMP
CHILLIWACK — Police in Chilliwack say the gear bags containing specialized search and rescue (SAR) equipment that were stolen during the search operation for the missing 7-year-old child last week have been returned to the Chilliwack detachment.
According to a statement from Chilliwack RCMP personnel, the equipment was taken on Friday, May 2, while SAR volunteers from Coquitlam were assisting in the search for a missing 7-year-old child. The team had stashed their heavy gear bags in the forest at the trail entrance at the end of Winona Road before beginning their search. Whey they returned to find the bags, they discovered the equipment was missing, police say.
The total estimated value of the stolen equipment is approximately $10,000.
“We are grateful the bags were turned into police allowing this critical equipment to be returned,” said Inspector Jeff Bowerman. “SAR volunteers are a vital part of our emergency response network, and their gear is essential to their safety and success in the field.”
