CHARGES have been laid in relation to a shooting that occurred in the Guildford area in March, Surrey RCMP announced on Tuesday.

On March 23 at 9:30 p.m., Surrey RCMP received several calls reporting shots fired in the 15200-block of Flamingo Place. A subsequent call was received reporting a male had been shot. Police were able to locate the man, who was suffering from non-life-threatening injuries, at another location in Newton. The 19-year old victim was transported to hospital.

Frontline officers, Community Response Unit and Surrey Gang Enforcement Team responded to the two separate locations and confirmed that the shooting occurred in the 15200-block of Flamingo Place. After the victim was shot, he fled the area in a vehicle.

On June 1, 20-year-old Benjamin Sultan Sabetnia of Coquitlam was charged with aggravated assault, using a firearm in the commission of an offence, robbery with a firearm and discharging firearm with intent. He has been arrested and remains in custody awaiting his next court appearance.

“This shooting took place within a residential neighbourhood in our community, causing grave concern to those who live in the area,” said Surrey RCMP Media Relations Officer Cpl. Vanessa Munn. “Investigators recognize the importance of following the evidence in each case, and identifying those responsible so they can be brought before the courts.”