Police got more than they bargained for at a recent late-night traffic stop in Black Creek, between Courtenay and Campbell River.
Members of North Vancouver Island Traffic Services in Campbell River were called to check a so-called “suspicious vehicle” parked near mailboxes on Macaulay Road earlier this month.
When arriving on scene, police found a woman behind the wheel and two men in the car. The woman was not able to provide a driver’s license, and one of the passengers gave a false name.
Further investigation led to the man’s true identity. He had outstanding warrants for his arrest. The man was also wearing a shoulder holster and was in possession of narcotics.
Officers found more narcotics and a fully loaded 9mm handgun under the seat where the wanted man was sitting. A second handgun (.22 calibre) and ammunition were found in the rear seat area where the second man was sitting.
The car was then towed to a secure location, and a search warrant was granted. Investigators found a sawed-off shotgun, a semi-automatic rifle, ammunition for both firearms, stolen IDs and jewelry, and more narcotics in the car.
Both men were arrested and will be facing a handful of charges with respect to firearms, narcotics and other offences.
“This incident demonstrates the unpredictability Traffic Officers face every time they stop a vehicle, which they do as part of their daily duties to keep our roads and communities safe,” says Corporal Mike Halskov.
To help take a bite out of crime in your neighbourhood, Halskov is asking you to report any suspicious activity to the RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
