On Feb. 13, 2024, the RCMP Federal Policing Integrated National Security Enforcement Team (INSET) arrested a Fort Saskatchewan resident for multiple weapons-related offences.
Following a thorough investigation, INSET executed a search warrant for a primary residence and vehicle. As a result of the search, the RCMP seized two prohibited automatic rifles, one prohibited semi-automatic rifle, one prohibited automatic handgun, one restricted handgun, two non-restricted semi-automatic rifles, one non-restricted shotgun, 33 prescribed prohibited magazines, and four bayonets.
Several of the seized firearms were designed for military use and are prohibited due to their capabilities of discharging automatic fire.
Mark Alexander Peterson, 33, a resident of Fort Saskatchewan, was arrested and charged with:
- Possession of firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized contrary to section 92(1) of the Criminal Code (x9);
- Possession of prohibited weapon, device or ammunition knowing its possession is unauthorized contrary to section 92(2) of the Criminal Code (x2);
- Weapons trafficking contrary to section 99(1) of the Criminal Code (x2);
- Possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition contrary to section 95(1) of the Criminal Code; and,
- Unsafe storage contrary to section 86(1) of the Criminal Code (x2).
Peterson is scheduled to appear in the Alberta Court of Justice in Edmonton on Feb. 21, 2024. The criminal investigation is ongoing and now before the court and, as such, the RCMP will not be making any further comments at this time.
INSET would like to thank the Alberta RCMP's Emergency Response Team and the Fort Saskatchewan RCMP for their support in this investigation.
The RCMP encourages citizens to remain vigilant and report any information on terrorism or related suspicious activity to the National Security Information Network at 1-800-420-5805 or by email at RCMP.NSIN-RISN.GRC@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or to their local police. If there is an immediate threat to your safety, please call 911.