Traffic Stop Leads to Drugs and Firearms

On December 19, 2024, Manitoba First Nations Police (MFNP) conducted a traffic stop in the 700 block of Kiche Maskanow. Investigation revealed that the driver was on release conditions to live in Winnipeg and was on a curfew.

Police continued an investigation under the Liquor, Gaming and Cannabis Act that resulted in two other occupants, an adult male and an adult female, being arrested. A search of the vehicle was conducted, and Police located a loaded, 12-gauge shotgun, which had been altered, making it a prohibited firearm. Suspected cocaine and Canadian currency were also located and seized. The driver and two passengers were arrested.

Dustin Dean ZORN, 37-year-old of Winnipeg, has been remanded into custody with the following charges:

Possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking

Possession of property obtained by crime under $5000

Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized

Unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle

Possession of a firearm contrary to an order

Possession of a restricted or prohibited firearm

Careless storage of a firearm

Possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose

Fail to comply with release order

A 39-year-old male from Opaskwayak Cree Nation and a 42-year-old female from The Pas has been released on Undertakings with conditions to attend Court later. The following charges have been recommended to the Crown:

Careless storage of a firearm

Unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle

Unauthorized possession of a firearm

If you have any information that could assist investigators, don't hesitate to get in touch with MFNPS Opaskwayak Cree Nation Detachment at 204-623-8200 or MFNPS TIPS line anonymously at 1-833-978-0048 or email TIPS@mfnp.ca. The MFNP TIPS line is accessible 24/7, 365 days a year, and monitored regularly.