Male suspect arrested for multiple offences after police investigate report of a replica handgun tucked into suspects waistband

West Shore

2024-01-05 08:37 PST

File # 2024-95

On January 2 2024, West Shore RCMP responded to a report of a man who was seen with what appeared to be a handgun tucked into the waistband of his pants. The incident took place inside the Greater Victoria Public Library located at 119-755 Goldstream Ave in Langford.

The Complainant advised police that during a brief conversation with the male suspect, he pointed to his waistband and there appeared to be a hand gun tucked into his pants. There were no threats made against the complaint in this incident, but the complaint was alarmed and called police.

The suspect left the area prior to police arrival. However, West Shore RCMP Frontline officers were able to determine the identity of the male suspect who is a resident of Oak Bay. With assistance from West Shore RCMP Serious Crime Unit and Oak Bay Police, West Shore Frontline officers executed a search warrant at a residence in Oak Bay on January 3. Police searched the residence and recovered a replica handgun.

Photo of replica handgun recovered by police:

A 59-year-old man was arrested for, Unauthorized Possession of Firearm, Carrying a Concealed Weapon and Possession of a Weapon for Dangerous Purpose.

Though the handgun turned out to be a replica, it had the look, feel and weight of a real handgun. Additionally, it was carried and displayed in manner to make it appear real. This is very concerning behaviour and charges are being pursued against the suspect, said Cpl. Nancy Saggar, West Shore RCMP Media Relations Officer.

The suspect was released on an Undertaking with conditions to not attend the library and not to be in possession of a firearm or prohibited weapon, he is to attend court in the upcoming months.

Released by

Cpl. Nancy Saggar

Email: westshore_media@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Website: westshore.rcmp-grc.gc.ca (English only)

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