A loaded shotgun is the latest in a spike of firearm seizures undertaken by the Prince Albert Police Service in the northern Saskatchewan city.
Officers were called to the 200-block of 32nd Street West just after 8:30 p.m. CT on Tuesday for a report of three men walking in the parking lot, one with a long-barrelled gun.
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While police were responding, the trio approached a man on a bike.
They allegedly threatened the cyclist and then pointed the gun at him.
He was able to flee unharmed.
Officers arrived and arrested two men. The third man ran to a nearby restaurant where he was taken into custody.
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Police say a loaded shotgun was found underneath a vehicle in the parking lot.
The three men are facing a number of firearms and attempted armed robbery charges as the investigation continues.
Since late 2015, Prince Albert police said there has been a significant increase in the number of firearms they have seized. So far in 2016, 52 firearms have been seized compared to 19 at this same time last year.
“The majority of complaints relating to firearms have involved gang or drug activity, but this is certainly a concern for all community members,” said Police Chief Troy Cooper.
“It is a very real danger for the officers who respond to these types of calls.”
On Wednesday, officials said the growing trend is not unique to the city and has been documented in other large centres in Saskatchewan.
Anyone with information in regards to illegal firearms or gang activity is asked to contact Prince Albert police at 306-953-4222 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
Thomas Piller contributed to this story
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