What began as a routine investigation into stolen recreational vehicles escalated into a major police operation in British Columbia's Interior this week. The RCMP's chase for missing snowmobiles led officers to a property in Falkland, where they uncovered not just the stolen equipment, but an alarming arsenal of weapons and illicit substances.
The investigation kicked off on February 13th when police received reports of stolen snowmobiles from the Cherry Creek area. Using investigative techniques and community tips, officers tracked the missing vehicles to a rural Falkland property, setting the stage for a significant discovery.
When RCMP officers executed a search warrant, they found more than just the stolen snowmobiles. The property yielded a disturbing collection of illegal items including:
- A sawed-off shotgun, classified as a prohibited weapon
- Multiple smoke bombs, raising concerns about potential criminal activities
- A substantial quantity of suspected methamphetamine and cocaine
- Additional stolen property beyond the initial snowmobiles
- Various rounds of ammunition
The property's resident, a 34-year-old Falkland man, now faces multiple serious charges including possession of a prohibited firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and possession of controlled substances for trafficking purposes.
RCMP spokesperson Corporal Jesse O'Donaghey emphasized the significance of the find, stating that removing such dangerous weapons and drugs from the community represents a major victory for public safety. The investigation remains active as police work to determine if additional individuals were involved in the criminal operation.
This case demonstrates how routine police work can sometimes uncover much larger criminal networks operating in rural communities. The RCMP continues to encourage residents to report any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.
