Firearms seized, 46 charges laid in Edmonton investigation

Edmonton… Two St. Albert men are facing countless firearms-related charges following an ALERT investigation earlier this month.

ALERT received information regarding two suspects believed to be in possession of multiple firearms. On August 2, 2023, multiple warrants were executed on several vehicles and home addresses, and the following items were seized:

• Three handguns;
• A prohibited assault rifle;
• Two handgun magazines; and
• Ammunition.

Police also seized two prohibited extended capacity magazines, including a prohibited 30 round magazine, as well as a “screw-on” silencer.

Each of the firearms seized had the serials numbers defaced, while the rifle appears to have been manufactured without one. All of the seized firearms have been submitted for further forensic analysis, ballistics testing and serial number restoration.

“Several of these firearms were tucked away, hidden inside a sophisticated compartment within one of the vehicles. One of the seized firearms was loaded when officers located it. It’s concerning when we see the lengths people will go to in order to conceal a weapon.  It’s even more concerning that two of the four firearms were fully automatic weapons, and that one appears to have been intentionally modified as such,” said Staff Sgt. Richard DeJong, ALERT Edmonton.

Mohamed Ilmi, 47-years old of St. Albert, was arrested and faces 33 total charges for firearms related offences and breach of conditions. He has been remanded into custody as he awaits his next court appearance, scheduled for August 21, 2023.

Paul Joseph, 42 years old of St. Albert, faces 13 charges, including three counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm.

Members of the public who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.

ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.