Police seized guns, ammunition and drugs following a traffic stop in Maple Ridge May 29.
Ridge Meadows RCMP’s Street Enforcement Unit stopped a white van in the downtown core and found illegal drugs in it after conducting a search of the vehicle.
Police also found a handgun and ammunition in the car.
The traffic stop led RCMP to apply for a warrant to search a house in Mission, where additional firearms, ammunition, body armour, an explosive device and a quantity of drugs were seized.
"All weapons, in particular firearms that are not registered or illegally carried, can pose a significant risk to public safety," said Cpl. Alanna Dunlop. "Canada’s laws in relation to firearms are very clear, and a person is required to have a permit to own and transport firearms."
RCMP allege that two of the firearms seized during the investigation were stolen, and one is a fully automatic assault rifle.
"Clearly, police are very concerned that this type of fire power is accessible in our community," said Dunlop. "Investigators are making every effort to pursue charges against the suspects in this case, and ensure all firearms are legally disposed of.”
A 29-year-old man from Mission and a 37-year-old woman from Maple Ridge were arrested. Charges against the pair are being pursued.
• Anyone with any information is asked to call Ridge Meadows RCMP at 604-463-6251. To remain anonymous call CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or leave a tip online at solvecrime.ca.