Three of 11 firearms seized at Pacific Region borders in one week – including July 17 – were found in vehicles attempting to cross into Canada at the local ports.
Officers at the Douglas (Peace Arch) border seized two handguns and arrested one man July 17 after a loaded 9mm pistol and a .50-calibre pistol were found in a northbound vehicle.
U.S. resident Nathan John Keese appeared in Surrey Provincial Court July 18. He is charged with smuggling, possession of a prohibited firearm and ammunition and unauthorized possession of a firearm. He is due back in court Aug. 30.
The plans of two travellers who arrived at the Pacific Highway border July 13 intending to embark on a two-month tour of B.C. were stymied after border guards found a loaded .22-calibre revolver and ammunition in a northbound motor home.
The weapon was seized, and the motor home’s two occupants were arrested smuggling. The pair were returned to the U.S.
Canada Border Services Agency spokesperson Stefanie Wudel said the incidents are among 75 firearms seizures at Pacific Region borders between Jan. 1 and July 18.
The majority were found hidden in vehicles. Other firearms seized included seven loaded handguns and a shotgun.
Wudel notes those planning to travel with firearms or weapons must declare the items in writing. Failure to do so can result in criminal charges, and the vehicle the weapons are found in may be seized. Prohibited weapons are not allowed into Canada.