Three men arrested after threatening, attempting to assault security guard in Nanaimo

Nanaimo RCMP arrested three men on Sunday evening after they allegedly threatened and attempted to assault a mall security guard.

RCMP says the incident took place at approximately 7:20 p.m. on Sunday, March 28 in the parking lot of the University Village Mall.

Police say the incident started after the security guard noticed that one of the men had entered a business on the premises.

The guard told police that he asked the men to leave, which resulted in a confrontation.

A police report suggests that one of the men produced a knife and was seen waving it at the guard.

READ MORE: Homeowners hit with $2,300 fines after police bust two Saanich house parties

“The two other males surrounded the guard and were attempting to assault him when police arrived,” reads a statement in the report.

The suspects ranged in ages from 25 to 37, according to Nanaimo RCMP, and patrol officers arrested them immediately and took the three into custody.

A knife and sheath were found next to one of the offenders at the location of the incident and seized.

Police also emphasize that the men were known as “prolific offenders.”

Police say the three were served with documents and later released. Each is scheduled to appear in Nanaimo Provincial court on Tuesday, July 6..

“The security guard was faced with an extremely dangerous situation from individuals who have shown, time and time again, a total lack of regard for law enforcement. We were fortunate to have arrived when we did in order to diffuse an extremely volatile situation,” said Constable Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

The men face charges ranging from uttering threats, assault and assault with a weapon.

Editorial Policies Report an Error