A 19-year-old Langford male was taken to court on outstanding warrants.

Following reports of a man in possession of an illegal handgun, the West Shore RCMP and the Island District RCMP Emergency Response Team obtained a warrant and entered a residence on the 900-block of Walfred in Langford at approximately 4 a.m. April 7.

Police found a replica firearm, or a pellet gun during the search of the residence but no offenses were alleged to have been committed with this replica so no firearms-related charges were laid. A suspect was held in custody however and taken to court on outstanding warrants relating to breach of probation and breach of a court-ordered conditions of release.

"Anytime we receive information that a firearm is in the possession of someone wanted on outstanding warrants, it is cause for concern," said West Shore RCMP spokesperson Cst. Alex Berube. "Until such a time as we are able to determine the authenticity of a firearm, our level of response must be adequate to ensure community safety and the safety of our officers."

The West Shore RCMP General Duty Section, Street Crime Unit and Major Crime Unit, along with the Island District RCMP Emergency Response Team, a negotiator and the Saanich Police Dog Service all assisted during the arrest.

alim@goldstreamgazette.com