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Two arrests, stolen property recovered at Calgary homeless encampment

CALGARY — Police in Calgary have made two arrests and seized a prohibited firearm along with $40,000 worth of stolen property from a homeless encampment.
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Police tape blocks off a crime scene in Calgary, Oct. 18, 2023.THE CANADIAN PRESS/Jeff McIntosh

CALGARY — Police in Calgary have made two arrests and seized a prohibited firearm along with $40,000 worth of stolen property from a homeless encampment.

Officers with the Community Engagement Response Team descended on multiple tents and structures in a southeast Calgary field on Oct. 5.

Police recovered bicycles, a gas generator, power tools, musical instruments and a loaded shotgun that had been taken in residential break-ins.

One of the instruments was a high-value guitar that was returned to its owner with minimal damage.

A 47-year-old man and a 36-year-old woman face dozens of charges, including firearms-related offences and possession of stolen property.

The pair remain in custody.

"Ensuring public safety by dismantling encampments is crucial, but it must be done with compassion and commitment to providing support for individuals facing homelessness," said Sgt. Kristian Thorpe.

This report by The Canadian Press was first published on Oct. 23, 2024.

The Canadian Press