A former Manitoba politician, Inky Mark, is facing charges following the seizure of a large cache of weapons, including an antique cannon, from his home in Dauphin last week.
Manitoba RCMP discovered 439 firearms and $300,000 in cash at Mark’s residence. The former MP, who represented Dauphin from 1997 to 2010, is accused of illegally trafficking at least three firearms, with one having its serial number altered. Authorities will need time to catalog the evidence and determine the extent of illegal possession among the weapons.
Mark, 78, has been charged with various firearms-related offenses, such as firearms trafficking, possession of a weapon with a tampered serial number, possession of crime-acquired property, and improper firearm storage. The allegations against him have yet to be proven in court.
RCMP Cpl. Barry Kirby mentioned, “At this time, we don’t know his motives for having so many firearms. We know he was a firearm collector.” Kirby clarified that legal possession of firearms becomes criminal when it involves trafficking, unsafe storage, or unauthorized possession.
The investigation commenced in late March after a 73-year-old individual faced firearms charges in the U.S., which led to further charges in Dauphin. During the search, firearms were found that were unlawfully obtained by a second suspect, prompting a search of the second suspect’s home.
Scott McMurchy, Manitoba RCMP’s commanding officer, emphasized the dangers of illegal firearms, stating, “Trafficking illegal weapons contributes to crimes and poses a serious threat to public safety. Removing these guns from circulation is essential to prevent violence and support our communities.”
