Police have seized dozens of firearms following the execution of search warrants at two rural properties near Quesnel as part of an ongoing investigation.

On May 15,the Cariboo-Chilcotin Crime Reduction Unit, with assistance from the Quesnel RCMP, Williams Lake RCMP, Police Dog Services, Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit BC, and the Forensic Identification Section, executed search warrants at two separate residences.

Due to safety considerations, and out of an abundance of caution, the North District Emergency Response Team (ERT) was deployed to assist with the safe execution of the warrants.

As a result of the searches, approximately 50 firearms were seized from the two properties. The seizure included multiple restricted and prohibited firearms, along with ammunition and other firearm-related items.

Two individuals were detained during the operation; however, both were later released pending further investigation.

“The seizure of more than four dozen firearms, ammunition and other items marks a significant win for public safety,” said Staff Sergeant Kris Clark of the BC RCMP. “The investigation is ongoing and any charges would be subject to approval by the appropriate Prosecution Service.”