Police in Kamloops and Rossland are looking into reports of sewing needles discovered in children’s Halloween candy, following similar incidents reported in other cities across British Columbia. CTV
Parents in Kamloops and Rossland have reported finding sewing needles hidden inside their children’s Halloween candy, bringing the total number of similar cases across British Columbia to six.
Police in both cities issued public warnings on Tuesday, asking families to check their children’s Halloween treats carefully before eating them. The RCMP said they are taking the reports seriously while reminding parents to stay alert.
“It’s too early to know if any of these are hoaxes,” said Cpl. Brett Urano, spokesperson for the B.C. RCMP. “We just have to go with the information we have. We’re asking parents to do their due diligence and make sure things are safe for their children.”
Kamloops Incident
The Kamloops RCMP released a photo showing a small KitKat bar with a sewing needle sticking out from one end. Police believe the candy came from homes in the Chestnut Avenue, Oak Street, or Walnut Avenue areas.
“Given how the sewing needle is in the chocolate, the packaging may appear to be sealed,” said Cpl. Dana Napier. “We’re treating this as tampering.”
Officers are asking anyone with similar findings or information to contact police immediately. No injuries have been reported.
Rossland Report May Be Accidental
In Rossland, a parent found a needle inside a small chocolate bar collected while trick-or-treating in the Cooke Avenue or Lower Sunningdale areas. Police noted that the candy wrapper looked torn and said the needle had thread hanging from it, suggesting it might have been mixed in with sewing materials by accident.
“Local RCMP don’t believe there’s any malicious intent in this case,” Urano explained. “It could have easily been a mix-up.”
Even so, police have asked parents in the area to check their children’s candy and report anything suspicious.
Other Reports Across the Province
Police are also investigating similar complaints in Prince George, Delta, Chilliwack, and Surrey. In most cases, sewing needles or pins were found in chocolate bars or packaged candy. Fortunately, no one has been injured.
In Surrey, investigators are looking into a case where a staple was allegedly found inside a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup collected in the Clayton Heights neighbourhood.
Authorities have not confirmed whether the incidents are connected or whether they involve deliberate tampering.
Parents Urged to Stay Alert
Police across the province are reminding parents to carefully inspect all Halloween candy before letting children eat it. Any items that appear opened, damaged, or suspicious should be thrown out immediately.
“It’s always better to be safe,” Urano said. “If something doesn’t look right, don’t take any chances.”
The RCMP continues to collect evidence and statements as they investigate the growing number of reports.
