Former Canadian MP Inky Mark has been charged with firearm trafficking offences after the Manitoba RCMP allegedly seized 439 firearms from his home in Dauphin.
Mark, 78, represented the federal riding of Dauphin, Swan River and Marquette from 1997 to 2010 and previously served as mayor of Dauphin.
Police said he was arrested last Tuesday following a search of his home as part of an ongoing firearm trafficking investigation.
According to RCMP Corporal Barry Kirby, officers also seized an antique cannon, ammunition and C$300,000 in cash .
The investigation began after the spring arrest of another 73-year-old man from Dauphin in connection with alleged gun smuggling.
Police said evidence gathered during that investigation led officers to obtain a search warrant for Mark’s property.
“It’s expected to take several weeks for investigators to document the large collection of evidence gathered at the residence and determine how many firearms were illegally possessed,” Kirby said to CBC News.
RCMP allege that at least three of the firearms had been illegally trafficked and one had a tampered serial number.
“Hundreds of the firearms were improperly stored inside the home,” Kirby added.
Mark faces 12 charges, including firearm trafficking, two counts of careless use of a firearm and possession of a firearm while knowing possession was unauthorised.
He has been released from police custody under conditions. Charges have been laid, but the allegations have not been proven in court.
