Manitoba police dealing with increased ‘gun’ calls due to ‘assassin game’
On May 23, at 11:58 a.m., Strathmore RCMP responded to a complaint of a suspect with a firearm at Strathmore High School. Based on the information provided, RCMP advised the school, and other buildings in the area, to initiate lockdown procedures.
RCMP arrived at the scene and quickly located the suspect, who was taken into custody without incident.
Initial investigation has revealed that there was never a threat to anyone. The suspect was carrying a water pistol and was partaking in the “Senior Assassin” game which has been circulating amongst graduating students across Canada. Although an innocent game, RCMP is reminding those partaking, please be mindful that someone witnessing this or driving by could perceive a water gun to be a real firearm. Please be cautious and safe.
Manitoba police face same issue
Last month the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) said they were aware of a resurging social media trend and its existence in local high schools involving graduating students.
“Assassin” is an organized live-action game in which players, graduating high school students, engage in “taking out” fellow students using water pistols to eliminate one another in an effort to become the last surviving player.
Unassuming members of the general public not familiar with this “game” may not recognize the activity as such and place a call for police to attend, as the activity is not limited to school property and can occur at any time of day.
The resurgence of this social media trend can add unnecessary strain on police resources as units are dispatched away from community members with legitimate calls for service.
All “gun” calls, real or perceived, illicit a heightened police response and are investigated. The Winnipeg Police Service would encourage parents to speak with children in their care and advise against engaging in this activity as not to strain police resources or place undue stress on unsuspecting community members.
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