A loaded semi-automatic rifle was seized after a foot pursuit in Sandy Bay First Nation on June 3, 2026, according to the Manitoba First Nations Police Service.
At about 8:01 p.m., officers from the specialized Crime Reduction and Enforcement Unit spotted two men near a dirt bike and believed they were carrying drugs or weapons. One man handed a backpack to the other and took off on the bike, while the second man ran into nearby bushes with the bag.
A coordinated search followed, using Police Service Dog Zion and an aerial drone. Officers tracked the suspect for over an hour, finding discarded boots, clothing, and other personal items along the way.
At roughly 9:08 p.m., police found the backpack hidden in a bush. Inside was a loaded GSG-16-style semi-automatic .22 calibre rifle with a round in the chamber, two fully loaded magazines holding about 60 rounds total, extra ammunition, a cell phone, a crack pipe, and gloves.
The investigation is ongoing as police work to locate both individuals. They are expected to face charges including firearm possession, possession of a controlled substance, and attempting to conceal or destroy evidence.
The police service issued a news release about the incident on June 10. Anyone with information is asked to contact the Sandy Bay detachment or the MFNPS anonymous tips line at 1-833-978-0048, or email [email protected].
