A B.C. man received five years for breaking into a home, stealing firearms, and selling a stolen rifle to an undercover cop in a major trafficking case.

Li Fu Alex Ni has been sentenced to five years in prison after being found guilty of stealing firearms from a Richmond home and selling one to an undercover police officer. The break-in occurred in August 2020, involving the theft of 15 firearms along with luxury items such as designer jewellery and high-end purses.

Break-In and Theft: An Elaborate Crime

Ni was one of three individuals who spent over eight hours breaking into a Broadmoor Street residence. They used tools including an angle grinder to access a gun safe discovered inside the home. Surveillance footage and purchase receipts tied Ni directly to the crime, disproving his claim that he was unaware of the break-in.

Undercover Operation Exposes Gun Trafficking

Three months after the theft, Ni sold a Simonov SKS semi-automatic rifle to an undercover officer for $3,000. During the operation, Ni displayed photographs of firearms on his phone and assured the officer the weapons had their serial numbers removed, implying they were “clean” and not linked to any crimes.

Court Rejects Entrapment Claims

Despite Ni’s argument that the undercover sting was entrapment and violated his Charter rights, the court found he initiated the gun sale discussions and actively participated in the trafficking. However, the judge did acknowledge a rights violation during Ni’s detainment and reduced his sentence by six months accordingly.

Sentencing and Legal Outcome

After accounting for time served and the sentence reduction, Ni will serve just over four years in prison. The case highlights the serious consequences of firearms trafficking and the effectiveness of coordinated police operations targeting illegal gun sales.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for more updates on this case and related news.

A sightseeing seaplane crashed near Refuge Cove, B.C., injuring three with minor wounds. Rescue teams responded quickly. Investigation underway.

A sightseeing seaplane crashed Monday evening off the coast of British Columbia near Refuge Cove on the Sunshine Coast. The aircraft was conducting a scenic tour when the incident occurred around 7 p.m., prompting an immediate emergency response.

Passengers Escape with Minor Injuries

All three people on board managed to safely exit the plane after it crashed into the water. Rescue teams and nearby pleasure-craft operators quickly arrived at the scene, helping the occupants climb onto the pontoon for safety. Thankfully, all injuries were minor.

Swift Rescue Operation by Coast Guard and Local Vessels

The Joint Rescue Co-ordination Centre in Victoria dispatched the coast guard vessel Cape Caution along with an inshore rescue boat. Multiple boats in the area assisted in rescuing the passengers, who were then transported to Campbell River for medical evaluation.

Medical Treatment and Hospitalization Details

B.C. Emergency Health Services reported that paramedics treated one patient en route to the hospital, while two others received on-site care but were not hospitalized. The patient transported is in stable condition.

Investigation Underway; Weather Possible Factor

Transport Canada has launched an investigation into the cause of the crash. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have indicated that weather conditions may have contributed to the incident.

The quick response and rescue efforts helped prevent serious harm in this unexpected accident.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for continuing coverage.

Vancouver family deli struggles with costly delays as imported food shipments held at Canadian border, raising concerns over rising fees and import policies.

Mediterranean Specialty Foods, a well-known family-run deli on Commercial Drive, Vancouver, is facing significant challenges due to prolonged delays in receiving food shipments from overseas. The business relies heavily on bulk imports, mainly from Türkiye, to stock popular items like hummus, baklava, olives, and specialty cheeses.

Costly Border Holdups Impact Business Operations

Ahmet Gurses, who helps manage the deli, revealed that one crucial shipping container was held by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) for several months, finally arriving on Christmas Day. These delays have forced the family to pay hundreds daily to a customs broker, inflating the shipment costs dramatically—from an initial $65,000-$70,000 to nearly $90,000, with fears the total may surpass $100,000.

Business Sustainability at Risk Amid Soaring Fees

Gurses expressed deep concern about the escalating expenses, stating that if costs continue to climb, the deli may be unable to remain open. This situation threatens not only the livelihood of the family but also the availability of unique Mediterranean products for local customers.

Government Response and Import Regulations Explained

When approached for comment, CBSA emphasized that the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA) sets import policies regarding food and agricultural products, while CBSA enforces these at the border. Shipments undergo inspection based on health, safety, and security risks. Under the Customs Act, CBSA holds the authority to detain goods suspected of non-compliance.

Experts Weigh In on Possible Trade and Safety Dynamics

Ian Lee, associate professor at Carleton University’s Sprott School of Business, recognizes the inspections as necessary for public safety. However, he notes that some countries might use food safety regulations as subtle protectionist measures or non-tariff trade barriers. While it is unclear if such motives affect Canada’s approach, heightened global trade tensions could play a role.

The fate of this family business underscores the wider impact of border policies on small enterprises and international trade.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for the latest updates.

Fraser Valley man mauled by two dogs on remote road left bleeding as owners fled. Police investigating; victim recovering with over 50 stitches.

A man from Fraser Valley is recovering after a brutal attack by two pitbulls on a remote road north of Harrison Mills. The incident occurred on Mother’s Day during his routine walk.

Attack Details: Victim Left Alone and Bleeding

David Peter described how the dogs charged him unexpectedly, biting his arms fiercely. The attack lasted several minutes, leaving him with deep wounds requiring over 50 stitches. Despite intervention from the dog owners, they abandoned him at the scene without offering help.

Emergency Response Delayed by Remote Location

Stranded and bleeding, Peter managed to call 911. Due to the isolated area, paramedics took 33 minutes to reach him and transport him to hospital care. The severity of his injuries highlighted the critical need for timely assistance.

Community Outrage Over Owner’s Abandonment

Peter, a member of the Sts’Ailes First Nation, is supported by family and community members who expressed shock and sadness over the owners’ callous behavior. Sts’Ailes Coun. Tim Felix condemned the neglect shown towards Peter during his ordeal.

Ongoing

Agassiz RCMP confirmed that the attack is under investigation but have not released further information. Authorities urge anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist with the case.

The victim reflects on how the incident could have ended tragically and hopes justice will be served.

Stay tuned to Maple News Wire for further updates on this developing story.