As recently reported in local media, Courtenay resident Bryce McDonald was the man arrested Dec. 19 by the province's anti-gang unit.
Nineteen firearms were found during the execution of search warrants at three Courtenay properties, according to a news release from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C. (CFSEU-BC).
More than six grams of crack cocaine, a machete, and "equipment believed to be used for the sale of drugs" were also seized, according to the release. Five handguns, 11 rifles and three shotguns were found during the searches, including one loaded 9mm semi-automatic handgun, a sawed-off shotgun, thousands of rounds of ammunition, a taser, a baton and brass knuckles.
The properties searched were in the 1500 block of Flicker Place, the 400 block Willemar Avenue and a storage locker facility in the 2600 block Kilpatrick Avenue.
McDonald was released on a promise to appear, pending charges being laid.
McDonald has not yet been charged, but according to a CFSEU media spokesperson that does not mean the charges won't be coming soon because it takes time for the Crown to review evidence, prepare charges and lay charges.
According to the release, charges pending could be related to drugs, firearms and weapons, including possession of a prohibited weapon.