The Hay River RCMP have concluded an investigation into a series of thefts from vehicles. The Hay River received a number of complaints between November 15th and 20th related to thefts from vehicles. In the early morning hours of November 20th, 2023, Hay River RCMP located and arrested 19-year-old Carson Egotak of Hay River in relation to the thefts. A search warrant was authorized for a residence that was associated to Egotak.
During the execution of the warrant, officers recovered a rifle, shotgun and three realistic looking airsoft handguns that are believed to be stolen but have not been reported to police. A 30-year-old-man from Ontario, Markara Bun, was arrested inside the residence in relation to the firearms and was found to also be in possession of $3500 dollars in cash. During the search of the residence, a large bag of an unidentified white powder was seized as well as a number of scales and various ammunition. The powder will be sent for analysis but based on the weight and packaging of the powder, it is suspected to be a cutting agent used in the preparation of street level crack-cocaine.
The investigation into this matter remains on-going but both Bun and Egotak face the following charges:
Carson Egotak is charged with:
Theft;
Mischief to property and;
Trespass by night
Markara Bun is charged with:
Possession of Property Obtained by Crime;
Unsafe storage of a firearm, and;
Two counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm.
The best defence against vehicle thefts is to ensure that vehicles are secured overnight. The RCMP recommend adopting a 9PM routine to secure vehicle and properties.
