Nanaimo RCMP arrested a man over the weekend after he allegedly brandished a loaded hunting crossbow while attempting to rob someone.

The incident occurred near the intersection of Milton Street and Nicol Street shortly after 7 am on Feb. 18, 2023.

Officers responded to a report of an individual who was reportedly threatened and robbed by a man who was in possession of a pistol and a crossbow. Officers located the suspect in nearby bushes and retrieved the loaded crossbow and several knives. The firearm was not located.

“The purchase of this crossbow was actually reported to police just days prior by staff at a Nanaimo retail store who were concerned about the purchase," said R/Cst Gary O’Brien of the Nanaimo RCMP.

Dustin Pacheco of Nanaimo appeared in a brief bail hearing on Saturday night and was ordered remanded into police custody. 

His next court appearance is set for Feb. 22, 2023.

“This is another example of the community working with the police to ensure the public’s safety after witnessing what they believed to be a suspicious purchase of a dangerous weapon,” said R/Cst. Gary O’Brien.