RCMP seize modified firearm following assault in Portage la Prairie

RCMP in Portage la Prairie says two people are in custody following an assault on Jan. 19.

Mounties responded to a report of a fight around 6 p.m. on Poplar Bay, in Portage la Prairie.

Reports indicated a 23-year-old man from Winnipeg was allegedly being assaulted by a man and a woman, who then fled the scene.

Officers searched the nearby area and found the two suspects walking nearby and they attempted to flee from the officers. Following a short foot chase, both were taken into custody.

While in custody, police say officers seized a backpack from one of the suspects and searched it. During the search, they allelgedly found a modified handgun, which had been rigged to fire immediately when handled.

“Modified firearms are unpredictable and can easily malfunction causing serious bodily harm or death to those that carry or use them,” said Sgt. Darcy Turko, NCO i/c of the Portage la Prairie General Investigative Section (GIS).

“Illegally modified guns, such as this one, pose not only a risk to public safety but also to our officers, thankfully no serious injuries occurred.”

One officer did require medical attention, RCMP says.

A 25-year-old from Brandon and a 25-year-old from Winnipeg were taken into custody on numerous weapons-related offences.

Mounties say an investigation is on going.