Don’t pursue suspects, says RCMP

HEADINGLEY, Manitoba – Mounties are issuing a reminder to the public after a handful of cases where victims chased after suspects.

Headingley RCMP say over the last few weeks, officers have responded to a number of reports of theft, where the victims were “actively pursuing” the thieves to get their stuff back. Car chases ensued–one even ending in a crash.

Now Mounties are reminding people who fall victim to theft to not go after the suspect to retrieve their things.

“While we understand that the theft of personal property is extremely frustrating, we cannot stress enough the danger to you and others of chasing suspects and engaging in this high-risk activity,” said Sgt. Paul Manaigre of the Manitoba RCMP in a release.

“Chasing vehicles could have very serious consequences and places you and other members of the public at risk. If confronted, these individuals may also use violence to evade capture and there is always a possibility that they are armed.”

Officers say if you witness a crime in progress, call 911 from a safe location and report it immediately.