Police are investigating after several businesses and homes in west Ottawa were "tagged" by vandals over the weekend.
Four locations were targeted overnight on Saturday, including the Bayshore Shopping Centre.
Police say "tagging" is the most common type of graffiti in the Ottawa area, and is often a sign of gang members marking their territory.
However, police say they don't believe the weekend graffiti is gang-related. Instead, investigators are calling it a case of mischief.
Police advise residents that they can help deter vandals by removing graffiti as soon as possible. Police say vandals want their graffiti to be seen and covering it up quickly is the most effective way to combat the problem.
Anyone who witnesses acts of graffiti vandalism is asked to contact Ottawa police immediately at 613-236-1222, ext. 7300.
CTV News at 6 begins a special report Wednesday night, looking at gang culture and what motivates gang members.
