ON November 17, while executing a search warrant on a residence in an unrelated ongoing investigation, Burnaby RCMP’s Investigative Support Team (IST) located and seized tens of thousands of dollars worth of stolen sunglasses and other eyewear.

Eight boxes with more than 100 items, many with store tags still attached, were seized as stolen property from the residence. Some tags allowed police to track the items as stolen from several businesses throughout the Lower Mainland.

Police also located approximately 5 grams of a powdered drug, believed to be fentanyl, mixed in with the eyewear.

“Criminals are going to be criminal,” said Cpl. Mike Kalanj with Burnaby RCMP on Thursday. “When investigating crime, police often discover other crimes being committed by the same individuals.”

Police said they are working hard to return as many items as possible to the rightful businesses.

The actual value of the eyewear is unknown; however, one item was listed at $1,140 and numerous others were tagged at several hundred dollars.

“What’s also concerning is if they were selling these items on the side, some unsuspecting victim could have unknowingly been contaminated by illicit drugs.” Kalanj added.

To protect the integrity of the investigation and the privacy of the victim, no further information will be provided regarding the original incident, police said.