Break-in at Ottawa Valley restaurant targeted aquarium of tropical fish, not its cash, owner says

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Whoever broke into the Beachburg Restaurant in the Ottawa Valley last week was more interested in raiding its aquarium filled with expensive tropical fish than getting away with other valuables, its owner said Tuesday.

The Chinese-Canadian restaurant, which has been open for more than three decades just south of Pembroke, has had a well-stocked aquarium for years, said Lily Dan.

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But there was an early morning break-in on April 11 at the restaurant, about 120 kilometres northwest of Ottawa, Ontario Provincial Police said in a release.

A small amount of money was taken from the till, said Dan. But more valuable was the booty from the aquarium, which included expensive tropical fish and related items such as clown fish, plants, fish food, chlorine and more, she said.

“I can’t believe it. I can’t believe it. It’s crazy… They target the fish, it’s not about the money,” Dan said. She added that other valuables at the restaurant such as its stock of beer were left untouched.

“The people love the fish, the children love it,” said Dan. “They’re happy, but not now.”

An OPP spokesperson did not provide more details on the number of fish stolen, but said the restaurant reported they were worth thousands of dollars.

The investigation continues. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Upper Ottawa Valley OPP at 613-732-3332 or Pembroke/Renfrew County Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or at www.valleytips.ca

phum@postmedia.com

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