Former Politician Faces Multiple Charges After Massive Weapons Haul
Inky Mark, a 78-year-old former Member of Parliament and ex-mayor of Dauphin, Canada, has been arrested following a police investigation into an alleged international gun-running ring. Authorities seized a staggering 439 firearms, an antique cannon, and over $300,000 in cash from his property.
The investigation began in March when Canadian authorities were alerted to weapon charges filed in the United States against a 73-year-old man. While executing an initial search warrant, police discovered a stash of guns purchased by a second suspect but never legally registered or transferred. That suspect was identified as Mark, according to CTV News.
Police Raid Uncovers Arsenal Resembling Military Depot
On July 7, police executed two warrants at Mark's property. Inside, they found what appeared to be a military depot, including 439 firearms of various types, a massive stockpile of ammunition, an antique cannon, and more than $300,000 in cash. Detectives admitted it would take several more weeks to fully document the haul and determine how many weapons were held illegally.
Police have established that at least three of the weapons were illegally trafficked, while one had its serial number tampered with. Mark faces charges of firearm trafficking, possession of a firearm with a tampered serial number, and possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000.
Former Mayor and MP Released on Bail
A court spokesperson confirmed that Mark, who has no prior criminal record, has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear in a Dauphin court on August 11. The investigation remains active, and the charges against him have not been proven in court.
Mark served as mayor of Dauphin from 1994 to 1997 and as MP for Dauphin-Swan River-Marquette from 1997 until 2010.
