Prince Albert hotel break-in leads to theft of RCMP weapons and ammunition

RCMP officers are more accustomed to investigating thefts than being the victims of them. But a recent break-in at a Prince Albert hotel has officers looking to recover weapons and ammunition.

According to a release from the Saskatchewan RCMP, shortly after midnight Wednesday, an officer discovered equipment had been stolen from his hotel room.

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The RCMP said the officer was staying at the hotel on 38th Street West “as part of their policing duties.” He discovered the locked room had been broken into and reported the incident to the Prince Albert Police Service.

According to the statement from the RCMP, officers determined three men and one woman had broken into the room. Among the items taken from the room were an RCMP service pistol, three pistol magazines, two carbine magazines, an RCMP shirt and pepper spray.

The officer also had personal belongings taken, as well as a conducted energy device, a radio, a body-worn camera and a police duty jacket. A search of the hotel area led to the recovery of these items.

One male suspect has been arrested. RCMP said they are working to identify the others and recover the remaining stolen equipment.

According to the statement, “Initial review of the incident indicates the officer stored their equipment securely. The suspects broke into a secure location illegally and stole the equipment. The pistol, conducted energy weapon, cartridges, baton and spray were in a locked box.”

The RCMP reminded the public that it is illegal to impersonate an officer and said, “we understand the concern when unauthorized individuals possess police clothing and equipment. If you ever are in a situation where you are unsure if someone is actually a police officer, you may request to see their badge and ID card.”

Anyone with information is asked to contact police or Saskatchewan Crime Stoppers.