Police are growing concerned about an increase in vigilantism stemming from an increase in local property crimes.
Port Alberni RCMP Inspector Brian Hunter says people on social media are feeding into a frenzy, and encouraging others to begin taking matters into their own hands.
Hunter recommends people call police and let professionals deal with the issue instead of getting into trouble themselves.
He said one person is facing charges of assault and uttering threats after going after the wrong person who was incorrectly identified on social media.
Hunter says while local property crimes are up 9% year over year, it is the job of police to chase thieves and people should not pursue vigilante justice.