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Police arrest 37 in anti-shoplifting blitz at Burnaby malls

Burnaby RCMP went after thieves at two Metrotown shopping centres and recovered $5,000 in stolen merchandise last week.
boost and bust
Burnaby RCMP's bike squad was part of a two-day anti-shoplifting operation at the Metropolis at Metrotown and Station Square malls last week.

A two-day operation targeting shoplifters in Burnaby’s Metrotown neighbourhood led to 37 arrests this month.

On April 21 and 22, Burnaby RCMP partnered with loss-prevention officers and security at the Metropolis at Metrotown mall and Station Square, according to a police news release.

Over the two days, officers arrested 37 people, including seven with outstanding warrants and four others who were breaching court-imposed conditions, the release said.

Police also recovered approximately $5,000 worth of merchandise during the operation, which they call a "boost and bust," according to the release.

Police noted “many” of the offenders were not Burnaby residents.

“This type of crime affects everyone and is a regional issue,” Burnaby RCMP Cpl. Mike Kalanj said in the release.

He said police will continue to be in the neighbourhood and work with businesses to prevent and deter thefts.

"While this latest boost and bust initiative has come to an end, our officers will continue to keep a visible presence in the Metrotown area," he said.

Follow Cornelia Naylor on Twitter @CorNaylor
Email cnaylor@burnabynow.com