Police are crediting a tip from the public for helping take guns and a large amount of amount of ammunition off the streets.
On Aug. 24, Okotoks RCMP received a complaint of a suspicious individual at the Nature’s Hideaway Campground northeast of Okotoks. Sgt. Sukh Randhawa said a man was heard walking near a camp trailer and would not respond when confronted by a camper. He said the individual appeared suspicious and it was a call from people on scene that resulted in RCMP responding.
“The call came from the public because he was a guy out of place,” said Randhawa.
RCMP were called to the scene where officers arrested two males and one female, who were found to be in possession of several firearms. RCMP recovered a list of stolen items in the incident, including three firearms and a considerable amount of ammunition. Police also recovered a Chevrolet 2500 van, five Alberta licence plates, an assortment of tools and jewelry and two cellphones.
“It was a good seizure, especially for the guns because they were stolen,” said Randhawa.
He said the public has a role to play in helping keep communities safe and encouraged anyone who sees suspicious activity to call the RCMP.
“Most people would say, ‘whatever, it’s not my business,’” said Randhawa. “But, people have to be vigilant.”
Following additional investigation, Okotoks RCMP have charged Aaron Thomas Buechi, 38, of Cochrane, with numerous offenses, including three counts of possession of a weapon for dangerous purpose, three counts of failing to comply with a probation order, three counts of failure to comply with conditions of a recognizance order, three counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm. He is also charged with one count each or possession of a loaded prohibited firearm, possession of property obtained by crime worth over $5,000 and one count of possession of property obtained by crime worth less than $5,000. He’s scheduled to appear in Okotoks court on Sept. 15. Anyone who sees suspicious activity or who has information about a crime is asked to contact Okotoks RCMP at 403-995-6400. Anonymous tips can be made to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS(8477).
