Three firearms, hundreds of rounds of ammunition seized by West Shore RCMP

While carrying out a weapons trafficking investigation in the West Shore area on March 2, the West Shore RCMP’s crime reduction unit seized three firearms as well as hundreds of rounds of ammunition.

The crime reduction unit – whose mandate is to target drug dealers and prolific offenders on the West Shore – identified a man believed to be attempting to trade a firearm or firearms for street drugs.

The investigation led them to execute a search warrant at a residence in Langford where three firearms, as well as hundreds of rounds of ammunition, were seized. All firearms and ammunition where stored in an unsafe manner contrary to the Criminal Code of Canada.

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One of the guns, a semi-automatic SKS rifle, had been altered to include an aftermarket synthetic stock as well as a prohibited 21-round magazine.

“This seizure of firearms and ammunition is a direct result of street-level drug trafficking. The dangers of drug trafficking effect all communities in the Victoria area,” said Const. David MacDonald, a member of the unit. “The West Shore crime reduction unit will continue to aggressively investigate drug traffickers.”

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The investigation is ongoing with evidence remaining to be examined.

A report recommending charges of weapons trafficking and unsafe storage of a firearm will be forwarded to Provincial Court at a later date.