2 suspects charged after string of Lower Mainland robberies

Two men have been charged following an investigation into a series of alleged robberies targeting gas stations and convenience stores across Metro Vancouver last year.

The Surrey RCMP says it believes six commercial store robberies between Aug. 29 and Sept. 18, 2023, were linked; four in Surrey, one in Burnaby, and one in Richmond.

“In three of the robberies, it is alleged that the suspects drove a stolen vehicle through the front doors of the businesses in order to gain entry,” Mounties said in a statement Friday.

The investigation reportedly led to a search at a home near 72 Avenue and 144 Street. Police say the warrants resulted in the seizure of a loaded shotgun and ammunition.

Two men are now facing charges in relation to the offences, including six counts of robbery each. One of the men is also facing one count of possession of a prohibited or non-restricted firearm, one count of unsafe storage of a firearm, and one count of possession of a firearm without a valid license or registration.

Mounties say the suspects were both “recently arrested” and will remain in custody until their next court appearance.