RCMP seize cache of weapons
The Whitehorse RCMP’s Project Macer continued to bear fruit this week,
The Whitehorse RCMP’s Project Macer continued to bear fruit this week, when one of the men arrested in the September, 2009 sting led police to a cache of weapons.
One of the firearms, a .40-calibre handgun, was stolen from the home of a Watson Lake conservation officer in 2003, police reported today.
A number of other firearms were also reported seized, but police are not disclosing details of what type nor where they were found.
“The other weapons are being examined, and we are trying to connect them with their rightful owners or their manufacturers,” RCMP spokesman Sgt. Don Rogers said today.
“It’s likely they were stolen or obtained by nefarious means.”
Project Macer used a drug dealer-turned-informant to break up the so-called “Surrey Group,” which trafficked and dealt in cocaine and Ecstasy, according to police.
“As a result of the continuing investigation and plea bargain with one of the convicted persons arrested during Project Macer, police were led to the location of the stolen handgun,” Rogers said in a press release.
“The handgun was recovered and identified by the original owner. RCMP are aware, through various sources, that this gun made its way around the Yukon Territory, changing hands a number of times.”
He added: “The fact that this weapon was known to be in the possession of various persons involved in selling drugs confirms the danger that drug traffickers pose to our communities, citizens and certainly to law enforcement members.”
Police have not arrested nor charged anyone in connection with the firearms seizure, Rogers said.
Project Macer has already resulted in more than 10 years’ worth of prison time for the men arrested.
Earlier this year, John “Yada” Vanderheide of Surrey, B.C., and Liam Leslie of Whitehorse pleaded guilty to one count each of conspiracy to traffic cocaine, a high-level charge reserved for organized crime operations. Each was sentenced to five years in federal prison.
Also arrested and charged at the time was Shaun “Duke” Naidu of Whitehorse, who pleaded guilty to selling Ecstasy and was sentenced to 15 months in jail.
Ryan Derkson and Jesse Ritchie, both of Whitehorse, were also arrested and charged with trafficking, although they are not believed to be part of the Surrey Group, according to evidence entered before the court.
JC
May 27, 2010 at 5:08 pm
So, a gun is returned and a major criminal gets his walking papers. Great Justice system we have today. Back in my early days, the Mounties worked to get their man, now they have to make deals with perps. Thats the result of 6 months training in Regina. But, hey, they make good traffic cops. But 6 months training to be a traffic cop and perp dealer? Just another note. Years ago, the Mounties used to take pride in wearing their uniforms. Now, they look like the spent several nights in them.