(Image Credit: File photo/Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Loaded Handgun Seized

Traffic stop leads to firearm charges in Salmon Arm

Mar 13, 2026 | 12:18 PM

A routine traffic stop in Salmon Arm led to a person being charged with a number of firearm-related offences.

Salmon Arm RCMP said a vehicle was stopped Wednesday, March 12, and during the stop officers “observed indicators consistent with drug trafficking,” resulting in the driver and passenger being arrested and the vehicle being searched.

During the search, police said officers discovered a loaded handgun, which was seized as evidence. Police did not indicate if any drugs were discovered and seized during the search.

The driver was released pending further investigation, but the passenger, Kale Skjeie, was charged with: 

• Possessing a firearm without a license or registration
• Possessing a restricted firearm while prohibited from doing so
• Failing to comply with an undertaking by possessing a firearm
• Unsafe transport of a firearm

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Skjeie remained in custody Friday pending a bail hearing.

“This type of activity has no place in our community,” said Sgt. Simon Scott, Salmon Arm RCMP Detachment Commander.

“Illegal drugs and firearms pose a serious risk to the public, and our officers remain committed to holding those responsible accountable. We will continue to take proactive steps to keep Salmon Arm safe.”

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