Merritt RCMP say they seized a sawed-off rifle while executing of a search warrant in response to an assault on Sunday evening.

In a statement, Sgt. Josh Roda says police were called to the 2700 block of Clapperton Avenue on March 27 to reports that a man was assaulted while inside a house and that the suspect had a sawed-off rifle.

In all, Roda says six people were taken into custody by the RCMP.

The next day, March 28, he says a search of the house led police to discover the sawed-off rifle as well as another rifle and a crossbow.

“Firearms calls like this are very dangerous to the public and police,” he said. “We want to assure the public we are doing everything we can to get illegal guns off our streets and hold the offenders accountable.”

No names were released, as police say the incident is still being investigated. The findings will be forwarded to the BC Prosecution Service to determine what charges may be laid.

If anyone has any information about the incident, Roda says to call the Merritt RCMP detachment at 250-378-4262 and speak to Const. Nic Maciejewski.