In an announcement issued today, Inuvik RCMP reported they have opened two firearms investigations since late August believed to be related to the drug trade in Inuvik.
In late August, officers seized a firearm in relation to one of these investigations.
“On August 28th, the detachment received a reported of an abandoned vehicle on Carn Road. Officers investigated, leading to the seizure of a prohibited firearm. The .22 calibre rifle had been sawed off, potentially allowing for concealment and one-handed operation.
Police reported that no charges have been laid at this time in relation to this incident, and the investigation remains ongoing.
On Sept. 12 another firearms investigation was conducted in a community residence. RCMP reported that a search warrant was executed on a local residence after a photo of a man “brandishing” a handgun was posted on social media and was reported to police.
As a result, 36-year-old man from Inuvik is facing charges including:
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm, contrary to section 91(1) of the Criminal Code
Possession of a restricted firearm with ammunition without a licence, contrary to section 95(1) of the Criminal Code - (2 counts) Failure to comply with a probation order, contrary to section 733.1(1) of the Criminal Code
Officers reported that at the time of the offence, the suspect was subject to a probation order prohibiting him from possessing firearms.
Police reported that the man appeared in court and was released by a Justice of the Peace on a release order.
RCMP reported that both alleged incidents are believed to be related to the drug trade in Inuvik. Police say that similar firearms incidents are also occurring in Fort McPherson, involving youth.
Inuvik RCMP said that they are partnering with other organizations to deliver local outreach programs for youth.
“In light of these firearms incidents, and those involving youth in Fort McPherson, the Inuvik RCMP Detachment is partnering with the local Justice Committee and the Chief Firearms Officer of the Northwest Territories while they deliver a firearms safety presentation on Sept 19th to students at the Inuvik East 3 High School,” said officers.
Police ask anyone with information related to either of these investigations to contact the Inuvik RCMP at 867-777-1111 or Crimestoppers at https://P3tips.com
