Vancouver man charged after loaded handgun found near Surrey Central

A Vancouver man is facing several charges after Metro Vancouver Transit Police say officers found a loaded 9mm handgun near Surrey Central Station.

Police stopped a vehicle on Aug. 13 for a Motor Vehicle Act violation. They arrested 31-year-old Patrick Sama Azoadam and say a search found the handgun and ammunition.

Police allege Azoadam was prohibited from possessing the firearm, had breached several release-order conditions and had outstanding warrants. He faces seven counts involving firearms offences, breach of a release order and obstruction of a peace officer.

Azoadam remains in custody until his next court appearance on Aug. 24. Transit Police media relations officer Const. Sunny Kainth said a loaded firearm near one of Metro Vancouver's busiest transit hubs presents a public-safety risk.