Winnipeg police make two arrests after launching strategy to curb bus crimes

Photo of a Winnipeg Police Service shoulder badge on an officer in Winnipeg Tuesday, November 5, 2019. THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods

Two arrests were made at the Unicity transit hub on the same day the Winnipeg Police Service launched its new strategy to curb violence on buses.

The first arrest was just before 9 a.m. on Wednesday when staff at a nearby store alerted police to a theft. Officers said they managed to stop the suspect as he was on his way to getting on a bus.

The suspect—a 37-year-old man—was arrested and alleged to have been found to be in possession of stolen items. He has been charged with theft under $5,000.

The second arrest came just after noon when officers returned to the Unicity Hub.

According to police, a bus driver witnessed a man smash a bus window using his elbow.

Officers arrested a 35-year-old man for mischief under $5,000. During his arrest, the suspect was alleged to have been found to be in possession of a flammable liquid and lighter, which is contrary to his release order. He is now facing an additional charge of failing to comply with conditions of a release order.

These two arrests were on the same day the Winnipeg Police Service announced that it’s collaborating with the city on a new strategy to end violent crime and disruptive behaviour on city buses.

As part of this initiative, there will be an increase in police officers riding on buses and patrolling near transit stops.