A routine traffic stop in Waterloo, Ontario has resulted in a major seizure of over 200 firearms, according to local police.
The incident occurred on Tuesday evening when officers pulled over a vehicle for a traffic violation. During the stop, they discovered a large number of firearms in the vehicle, prompting them to launch a further investigation.
Upon further inspection, police found a total of 217 firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns, along with a significant amount of ammunition. The weapons were all unregistered and unlicensed, and many were found to be modified and capable of firing multiple rounds at once.
The driver of the vehicle, a 35-year-old man from Waterloo, was arrested and is now facing multiple charges, including possession of prohibited firearms and possession of firearms without a license. He is currently in police custody and is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday.
Waterloo Regional Police Chief Bryan Larkin praised the officers involved in the traffic stop, stating that their quick thinking and thorough investigation prevented these dangerous weapons from potentially falling into the wrong hands.
“This seizure is a significant win for public safety,” said Larkin. “These firearms were not only unregistered and unlicensed, but many were also modified, making them even more dangerous. We are grateful to our officers for their diligence and commitment to keeping our community safe.”
The investigation is ongoing, and police are urging anyone with information about this incident to come forward. They are also reminding the public to report any suspicious activity or illegal firearms to the authorities.
This seizure serves as a reminder of the importance of strict gun control measures and the need for continued efforts to keep illegal firearms off the streets. The Waterloo Regional Police are committed to working with the community to ensure the safety and well-being of all residents.