Clown mask, imitation air-powered rifle used in armed robberies: WPS

A man has been arrested after a pair of cannabis stores in Winnipeg were robbed.

Winnipeg police have arrested a 38-year-old man after two cannabis dispensaries and a hotel lounge were robbed at gunpoint.

The first robbery happened at an Alpine Avenue hotel on June 11. Police said the suspect, who was wearing a disguise and carrying an air-powered rifle, went behind the bar and took money from the till.

Police said the suspect also stole approximately $5,000 in marijuana and vape products from a St. Mary’s Road cannabis dispensary on Oct. 14 and robbed an Archibald Street dispensary on Nov. 7. Police said he was in disguise and armed with an air-powered rifle in both robberies.

No injuries were reported, and all three incidents were captured on camera.

Police said the suspect was already in custody at Milner Ridge Correctional Centre on Nov. 21 when they arrested him. They said a clown mask and an imitation air-powered rifle were found at his home.

The 38-year-old man is charged with three counts each of robbery, wearing a disguise with intent, possession of a weapon, and breaching release orders.

He remains in custody and the charges have not been proven in court.