A Winnipeg Police Service shoulder badge is seen at the Public Information Office in Winnipeg, on September 2, 2021. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/David Lipnowski)
A routine shoplifting call led Winnipeg police to seize a loaded handgun and thousands of dollars worth of drugs from two suspects at a McPhillips Street retail store on Thursday.
Officers responded around 2:55 p.m. after loss prevention staff detained a man and woman for allegedly stealing merchandise. Upon arrival, police discovered the male suspect was carrying a Smith & Wesson handgun with a loaded magazine with 9mm ammunition.
A further search led to the seizure of approximately 130 grams of cocaine, 67 grams of fentanyl, six grams of methamphetamine, 50 Dilaudid tablets, cell phones, and $2,740 in cash. The estimated street value of the drugs totalled over $21,700.
Matthew Hudson, 27, of Winnipeg, faces multiple charges, including firearm-related offences, drug trafficking, and theft. He remains in custody.
A 24-year-old Winnipeg woman was charged with fentanyl possession and theft under $5,000. She was released with a court date.
The investigation is ongoing.
