A loaded handgun was seized by Metro Vancouver Transit Police during an arrest near Surrey Central SkyTrain Station last week.
Transit Police said members of its Crime Suppression Team were conducting patrols around the busy transit hub at about 5 p.m. on Aug. 13 when they carried out a traffic stop and arrested a 31-year-old man.
According to police, officers determined the man had outstanding warrants and was allegedly breaching conditions of a release order stemming from a previous arrest.
During a search following the arrest, police say officers discovered a loaded 9 mm handgun and additional ammunition in the man’s possession.
The Vancouver resident has since been charged with seven firearms-related offences, along with one count of breaching a release order and one count of obstructing a peace officer.
Police said the suspect remains in custody pending a bail hearing. His next court appearance is scheduled for Aug. 24.
Transit Police spokesperson Cst. Sunny Kainth said the seizure highlights the importance of proactive policing around transit hubs.
“A loaded firearm in close proximity to one of the busiest transit hubs in Metro Vancouver puts public safety at risk,” Kainth said. “Routine patrols and enforcement of seemingly innocuous offences can often play a critical role in preventing incidents that threaten public safety.
“By taking a proactive approach to policing, Transit Police officers successfully removed a dangerous weapon from the community and worked to hold the responsible individual accountable.”
