Traffic stop in Salmon Arm leads to arrest and seizure of loaded handgun

A traffic stop by Salmon Arm RCMP on March 11 resulted in the arrest of one person and the seizure of a loaded handgun, according to a police news release.

RCMP said officers conducted the stop and observed indicators consistent with suspected drug trafficking. Both the driver and passenger were arrested, and a search during the investigation led officers to locate a loaded firearm. Police said the firearm and other items were seized as evidence.

The driver was later released pending further investigation. Police said charges have been approved against the passenger, identified as Kale Skjeie.

According to RCMP, Skjeie faces four Criminal Code charges: failing to comply with an undertaking by possessing a firearm, possession of a firearm without a licence or registration certificate, possession of a restricted firearm while prohibited from doing so, and unsafe transport of a firearm.

Skjeie remains in custody and is awaiting a bail hearing.

“This type of activity has no place in our community,” Salmon Arm RCMP Detachment Commander Sgt. Simon Scott said in the release. “Illegal drugs and firearms pose a serious risk to the public, and our officers remain committed to holding those responsible accountable.”