Saskatchewan RCMP arrest wanted male and seize weapons

June 23, 2026 - Île-à-la-Crosse, Saskatchewan
From: Saskatchewan RCMP

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Saskatchewan RCMP seized dangerous weapons after locating a wanted male on Highway #155.

On June 16, 2026, Île-à-la-Crosse RCMP received a report of a wanted male travelling in an SUV on Highway #155, between Île-à-la-Crosse and Beauval. 

Officers from Île-à-la-Crosse and Beauval RCMP detachments located the SUV parked on the side of the highway and arrested the wanted male and the passenger. The wanted male initially provided police with a false name. During a search of the vehicle, police located and seized an imitation firearm, an axe, and a firearm.

As a result of investigation, 37-year-old Barry Opekokew from Eagles Lake IR, part of Canoe Lake Cree First Nation, has been charged with:

• one count, possession of firearm in motor vehicle, Section 94(1), Criminal Code;
• six counts, weapons possession contrary to order, Section 117.01(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, operation while prohibited, Section 320.18, Criminal Code;
• one count, possession of weapon for dangerous purpose, Section 88(1), Criminal Code;
• one count, resists/obstruct peace officer, Section 129(a), Criminal Code;
• one count, identity fraud, Section 403, Criminal Code; and 
• one count, possession of a firearm when knowing possession unauthorized, Section 92(2), Criminal Code.

Barry Opekokew was wanted on warrant by Saskatchewan RCMP for charges including robbery with a firearm, assault, assault with a weapon, aggravated assault, pointing a firearm, and flight from peace officer. 

Barry Opekokew is scheduled to appear in court in Île-à-la-Crosse on June 24, 2026 (Information #90498998). 

The passenger was released without charges. 

Saskatchewan RCMP continue to investigate.