Tuesday, June 6, 2023

Masset RCMP seize stolen firearm as part of traffic stop incident from May


A May traffic stop led to some additional work and potential danger for Masset Mounties, that after members discovered  a loaded handgun, later determined to have been stolen from another province in the car which had been stopped. 

In an update Monday, the Masset Detachment traced the elements of the incident. 

On Thursday, May 20, 2023 Masset RCMP were conducting a road safety check on Highway 16 south of Masset, as part of a national campaign targeting impaired drivers. 

During this road check, police encountered a vehicle and passengers where violations of the Liquor Control and Licensing Act were observed. 

The driver displayed signs of impairment and was detained for impaired driving. Four people were arrested with one man held in custody for failing to comply with a current court order. 

The driver of the vehicle was issued a 24-hour driving prohibition and the vehicle impounded under the Motor vehicle Act.  

During the initial investigation, police located a loaded handgun, later confirmed stolen from another province, well within reach of the occupants in the vehicle.

An image of the gun seized by Masset RCMP in May

Corporal Evan Hobbs of the Masset RCMP outlined that individuals involved were known to local Haida Gwaii authorities.

The individuals involved are associated to the local drug trade in Haida Gwaii and the presence of the firearm quickly elevated the potential for danger for all involved. 

The Masset RCMP continue to take proactive enforcement efforts in our commitment to making the community and highways safe for all. 

The file remains under investigation and further charges may result.

Masset RCMP encourage anyone to report suspicious activity to the police. 

The information release can be reviewed here.

More notes on the work Emergency Responders across the Northwest and on Haida Gwaii can be reviewed from our archive page.

No comments:

Post a Comment