This morning at approximately 4:30 a.m., Saskatchewan RCMP executed a search warrant in Richmound, Saskatchewan. It was at a privately-owned decommissioned school inhabited by a group of individuals.
The search warrant was obtained after we received a report an individual occupying the building was in possession of a firearm.
That report was received on August 25. After receiving the report, Saskatchewan RCMP began an extensive investigation. This included careful monitoring of any risk to public safety and to the community of Richmound.
A team of skilled and experienced senior officers was established to oversee this large and complex operation.
This response was made up of RCMP officers from throughout the province including :
- Critical Incident Response Team,
- Tactical Support Group,
- Containment Team,
- Police Dog Services,
- General Investigation Section,
- Remotely Piloted Aircraft System, and
- Detachment members.
There was also assistance from the Regina Police Service’s SWAT program.
There were more than 30 police vehicles along with two tactical vehicles at the scene.
The safety of the public and officers is the top priority in any situation.
RCMP carefully examined the components of the property prior to the execution of the search warrant. This maximized the likelihood of a quick, smooth and safe operation.
There were approximately eight RVs parked on the property. A team of officers cleared the RVs while another team methodically cleared the building from one side to the other. Officers arrested 16 adults. Ten individuals were arrested inside the building, five were arrested in the RVs and one was arrested outside a residence in Richmound.
The buildings were cleared and all individuals were arrested by 6 a.m.
The next phase of the investigation is now in its early stages. Investigators are still in the process of searching the building, collecting evidence and interviewing those arrested. At this time, no charges have been laid.
As of the last update from investigators, which was received at 11:30 a.m., police have located and seized four replica handguns – one inside the building and three inside vehicles. While clearing the property, officers observed modifications that had been made to the existing structure. Fire investigators with the Saskatchewan Public Safety Agency were notified. They are now engaged in their own investigation.