Archives from January 1, 2023 – July 5, 2025.
To view current news visit: BC RCMP news.
Information identified as archived is provided for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It is not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards and has not been altered or updated since it was archived. Please contact us to request a format other than those available.
Kamloops City
2025-05-01 15:43 PDT
View larger image: Supt. Pelley stands behind a Kamloops Detachment podium while speaking to the local media.
Drill presses, metal lathes, 3D printers, and airsoft guns were some of the items shown to media on Thursday to help provide further insight into a recent Kamloops investigation.
On May 1, 2025, Kamloops RCMP Superintendent, Jeff Pelley, invited members of the local media to the Battle Street detachment to view and discuss equipment seized during an April 22, search warrant execution in Chase.
Explosives, guns, body armour, and equipment for illegally manufacturing firearms were seized during the investigation led by the Kamloops RCMP Detachment’s Targeted Enforcement Unit (TEU), said Supt. Pelley, standing behind two tables of carefully labeled and presented items. It’s important to note that our investigators are still processing exhibits, and this is a sample of what was seized during this one particular investigation.
Explosives, guns, body armour, and equipment for illegally manufacturing firearms were seized during the investigation led by the Kamloops RCMP Detachment’s Targeted Enforcement Unit (TEU),
It’s important to note that our investigators are still processing exhibits, and this is a sample of what was seized during this one particular investigation.
The guns being manufactured and trafficked were untraceable firearms, some 3D printed, others with serial numbers removed, and some using lower receivers from pellet guns.
In speaking to the media, Supt. Pelley commended the TEU which has, with the support of localized and provincial resources, worked continuously to reinforce the detachment’s zero tolerance stance on firearms related offences.
The continued pressure our TEU has put on those involved in the drug trafficking conflict is a testament to the 24-7 work of our officers to remove and disrupt illegal activities from spilling into the public realm, where it puts bystanders and innocent people at higher risk, he added and referenced a drug conflict involving public violence which began last year.
The continued pressure our TEU has put on those involved in the drug trafficking conflict is a testament to the 24-7 work of our officers to remove and disrupt illegal activities from spilling into the public realm, where it puts bystanders and innocent people at higher risk,
Approximately one year ago, the detachment released a Public Interest Disclosure that saw two individuals named who had a deliberate nexus to the organized drug trade and to the violent conflict experienced locally.
View larger image: a close-up image of some of the equipment seized, including pistols and a 3D printer.
While Supt. Pelley did not say the firearms manufacturing/trafficking investigation was related to those specific occurrences or individuals, he stated the investigation has a direct connection to Kamloops.
We have seen in our community the acquirement of firearms being used in public offences. Firearms entering communities is a concern. Targeting those who manufacture, distribute, and use them, including those involved in drug trafficking, remains a detachment priority and we look forward to more results in the future, said Supt. Pelley.
We have seen in our community the acquirement of firearms being used in public offences. Firearms entering communities is a concern. Targeting those who manufacture, distribute, and use them, including those involved in drug trafficking, remains a detachment priority and we look forward to more results in the future,
He said the detachment continues to make progress with enforcement strategies that help improve the safety of our neighbourhoods, which will be even more safe once the associated judicial processes are completed.
The TEU members have remained dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of the community, often working extended hours and adapting their shifts at a moment's notice, said TEU Sergeant Kevin McIntyre.
We take pride in knowing that our efforts contribute to a stronger, safer environment for everyone," said Sgt. McIntyre. "Our commitment to enforcement strategies aimed at disrupting criminal activity and addressing local drug trafficking groups extends beyond this project. We encourage individuals involved in such activities to seek positive alternatives that offer a path forward without resorting to violence. Support and resources are available for those who want to make a change, and we urge them to contact our team and take advantage of these opportunities."
View larger image: long-guns and other equipment and tools displayed.
During the media availability, Supt. Pelley was also asked about recent investigations in rural Kamloops, including a Paul Lake homicide and discovered remains, and if there is a connection. He clarified that those incidents are separate and active investigations being conducted by the Southeast District Major Crimes Unit.
Nothing obvious has been revealed suggesting a relation to our investigation at this point, but we are constantly assessing any nexus and continue to support efforts with a collaborative approach, said Supt. Pelley. Recent occurrences of violence have also been targeted, as opposed to the public shootings we witnessed prior to issuing the PID last year.
Nothing obvious has been revealed suggesting a relation to our investigation at this point, but we are constantly assessing any nexus and continue to support efforts with a collaborative approach,
Recent occurrences of violence have also been targeted, as opposed to the public shootings we witnessed prior to issuing the PID last year.
The TEU investigation into the manufacturing and distribution of firearms is ongoing with charge recommendations anticipated.
Anyone with information related to drug trafficking and violence in the community is asked to please contact the Kamloops RCMP Detachment.
Released by:
Email: crystal.evelyn@rcmp-grc.gc.ca Website: kamloops.rcmp.ca
Follow Us: