Neepawa RCMP along with assistance from Ste. Rose RCMP and Riding Mountain Traffic Services foiled a planned armed robbery at a small convenience store in Riding Mountain, Manitoba.
Neepawa and Ste. Rose RCMP were alerted to a stolen vehicle traveling south on Highway 5 south of McCreary Manitoba. Neepawa RCMP were traveling north on Highway 5 and noted the stolen vehicle parked and running at a store in the village of Riding Mountain. Members approached the vehicle just as the suspects were exiting the store. One suspect attempted to flee on foot but was captured after a short chase.
Investigation revealed that the three had discussed a plan to rob the store at gun and knife point and were returning to the vehicle to retrieve a stolen rifle. Police intervene just as they were exiting the store.
Police recovered loaded firearms from the vehicle and knives from the suspects.
The trio were involved in a short police pursuit earlier in the day in Swan River Manitoba but escaped. The vehicle and firearms had been stolen earlier in the week from Virden Manitoba.
Three persons are in custody and have been remanded to appear Monday morning in Brandon Provincial Court. Tina Louise Alberts (30) and William Thomas Alberts (22) of Kennedy, Saskatchewan, and Steven Mathew Martens (24) of Virden, Manitoba have been charged with conspiracy to commit armed robbery.
Investigation is continuing and further charges are expected.
Bob Chabot, Sgt
Neepawa RCMP
(204) 841-0555
