An Iqaluit man is facing a slate of criminal charges in connection with six property crimes that occurred between January and August, Nunavut RCMP said this week.
The accused, identified in court records as William Kolola, 30, has been charged with three counts of break and enter, possession of break-and-enter instruments, theft under $5,000, assault with a weapon and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose. He remains in custody following a court appearance.
Police credit public tips in identifying suspect
Police said members of the public played a key role in identifying the accused. In a media release, RCMP emphasised the importance of community cooperation in investigations.
"Public cooperation continues to play an important role in helping police identify suspects, gather information and hold offenders accountable," said Ashley Daley, media relations officer for Nunavut RCMP.
The charges against Kolola make him at least the fourth person formally charged in relation to the recent wave of break-and-enters in Iqaluit. Earlier this year RCMP announced formal warnings had been issued to an 18-year-old and three youths in connection with some incidents.
Spike in break-and-enters late 2025 and early 2026
Police documents and public statements show a marked increase in break-ins beginning in December 2025 before tapering off in April 2026. RCMP leadership has suggested the offences were likely committed by a small group operating in the capital.
Nunavut RCMP Chief Superintendent Kent Pike told media in early 2026 investigators believed the break-and-enters were being carried out by two to three people. The incidents targeted retail premises and office locations, creating concern among local business owners.
| Period | Reported break-and-enters |
|---|---|
| Dec. 1, 2025 to Jan. 23, 2026 | 36 |
| Same period previous year | 17 |
Impact on businesses and community response
Owners and staff at affected businesses reported losses, disrupted operations and heightened anxiety as the pattern unfolded. In communities the size of Iqaluit, repeated offences against local services reverberate widely, affecting employees, customers and the sense of public safety.
RCMP say that alongside formal charges they continue to investigate other incidents and follow leads provided by residents. Investigators are urging anyone with information about the break-ins to contact Iqaluit RCMP.
- Those with tips are asked to call Iqaluit RCMP at the local detachment number.
- People who wish to remain anonymous can contact Crime Stoppers with relevant information.
- Business owners are encouraged to review security measures and report suspicious activity promptly.
The arrest comes as territorial and municipal leaders weigh responses to property crime spikes, including prevention measures, support for affected businesses and strategies to address underlying social issues that can drive offending. Public safety stakeholders have pointed to collaboration between police, social services and community groups as critical for lasting change.
The case against Kolola will proceed through the Nunavut court system. Charges of break and enter, possession of break-and-enter instruments and assault with a weapon are indictable and carry serious potential penalties upon conviction. No sentencing or trial dates have been released publicly at this time.
As this matter moves forward, residents are reminded to secure properties, log serial numbers for valuable items, and share any footage from security cameras with police when requested. RCMP said further updates will be provided as investigations continue and court processes unfold.
Coverage of crime and safety remains a priority in Nunavut communities where many people know victims and accused alike. Monitoring how law enforcement and social supports respond to this series of offences will be important for preventing future harm and rebuilding community confidence.
