Maskwacis RCMP arrest three in kidnapping and shooting case

Three men from Samson Cree Nation have been arrested and charged following a violent kidnapping and shooting incident that occurred on the evening of Monday.

Maskwacis RCMP responded to a call to assist Emergency Medical Services after a male victim was found with a gunshot wound. Investigators determined that the victim had been kidnapped, tied to a chair in a basement, and severely beaten before being shot.

With the support of the RCMP police helicopter and police dog services, officers arrested three suspects in connection with the crime. Three search warrants were executed in the area, leading to the recovery of the suspected firearm used in the offence.

Clarence Northwest, 36, of Samson Cree Nation, has been charged with multiple offences, including kidnapping with a firearm, discharge of a firearm with intent, aggravated assault, adult intimidation, and flight from a peace officer. He faces a total of 18 charges.

Silas Soosay, 25, and Chevez Louis, 18, also of Samson Cree Nation, have been charged with kidnapping with a firearm, unauthorized possession of a firearm, and four additional offences each.

All three suspects appeared before a Justice of the Peace and were remanded into custody. They are scheduled to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Wetaskiwin on Thursday and March 4.

The investigation into the seized firearm remains ongoing. Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding its origins to contact Maskwacis RCMP at 780-585-4600. Anonymous tips can be provided through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS), online at www.P3Tips.com, or via the "P3 Tips" app.