RCMP erred in seizing firearms from High River homes during flood

The RCMP Watchdog has agreed with residents that police should not have taken guns from homes during the flooding in High River two years ago.

More than 600 firearms were seized at the time, as Mounties argued they posed a safety threat.

Chair of the Civilian Review and Complaints Commission Ian McPhail says that while they acted in the interest of saving lives and property, the officers responsible exceeded their authority.

The mistake has been blamed on unclear policy and a lack of leadership, as well as poor communication between the RCMP and the public during the crisis.

One of the recommendations stemming from the report is to create guidelines surrounding the seizure of firearms during disasters.