54 arrests, 31 weapons seized over 5-day transit police operation in Langley, B.C.

Metro Vancouver Transit Police arrested 54 and seized 31 weapons during a five-day operation earlier this year. (@TransitPolice / x.com)

Metro Vancouver Transit Police arrested 54 people and opened more than 50 files during a five-day operation at the Langley Centre bus exchange earlier this year.

The MVTP shared the results of the enforcement effort on social media Wednesday, but confirmed in an email to CTV News that the operation took place on non-consecutive days from late February through late March.

In all, the MVTP Crime Suppression Team seized 31 weapons – including multiple swords, hatchets and a pair of two-headed axes – along with a variety of illicit drugs, 92 boxes of contraband cigarettes and more than $3,000 in cash.

Asked about the unusual weapons police seized, MVTP told CTV News via email that – while some of the seized weapons were concealed on suspects’ persons – others were found in backpacks or in vehicles.

“While it isn’t common (that) we see individuals walking down the street or on the transit system carrying weapons like battle axes, we do know that criminals use all types of weapons at their disposal,” transit police said.

“We want to remind the public that if they witness anyone carrying anything in a dangerous manner, to call police. They can text us at 87-77-77 or call 911 in an emergency.”

Five replica firearms were also seized during the operation, according to MVTP.

Police said they seized 2.8 kilograms of illegal cannabis, 454 grams of fentanyl, 167 grams of oxycodone pills, 125 grams of cocaine, 32 grams of crystal methamphetamine and one litre of Gamma Hydroxybutyrate (GHB).

“We could not have done this without a lot of support from our policing partners,” MVTP said in the post, specifically thanking Langley RCMP, provincial-level Mounties and the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C., which serves as the province’s anti-gang task force.

Transit police said they targeted the Langley Centre bus exchange because of its position as a hub for transit and commerce in the city’s downtown.

“In anticipation of the SkyTrain line extension into the City of Langley, transit police remain committed to proactively conducting enforcement to ensure safety within transit hubs as well as focusing on offenders that commute to Langley using the bus network,” police said.