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RCMP seize drugs, cash and handgun in Sechelt

Sunshine Coast RCMP say a 27-year-old Sechelt man is in custody facing a series of charges after police seized drugs, cash and a gun during a weekend traffic stop.
drugs and gun
Drugs, cash and a gun seized by RCMP during a traffic stop in Sechelt on Oct. 10.

Sunshine Coast RCMP say a 27-year-old Sechelt man is in custody facing a series of charges after police seized drugs, cash and a gun during a weekend traffic stop.

According to a release, police pulled over an SUV on Wharf Avenue near Friendship Park around 2 p.m. on Oct. 10.

“The driver and lone occupant, known to police to have a suspended licence, was arrested without incident,” RCMP said. “During the search, police located a handgun concealed on his person. A further search of the vehicle located ammunition, thousands of dollars of cash and illicit drugs believed to be cocaine and methamphetamine.”
Matthew Alan Payne appeared in Sechelt Provincial Court on Oct. 13 and remains in custody facing firearms charges. RCMP said charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act are anticipated as the investigation continues.
RCMP also said the gun seized in this incident was the 28th firearm seized as a result of ongoing police investigations on the Sunshine Coast over the past six weeks.

“These numbers are unprecedented and much of it is as a result of good old fashioned police work,” the release said.

Detachment commander, Staff Sgt. Poppy Hallam, said Sunshine Coast RCMP are committed to targeting drug dealers and the violence and property crime associated with the drug trade.

“I am proud of the great work that’s been done lately by our frontline officers and specialized units,” she said. “These investigations are complex and labour intensive but contribute directly to the safety and security of our residents.”