NORTH Vancouver RCMP have arrested two suspects believed to be responsible for a bear‑spray assault last month at Capilano Mall.

On December 18 at approximately 4:20 p.m., police received multiple reports of an assault at Capilano Mall. It is alleged that two masked men entered a store and deployed bear spray on three employees. The suspects did not steal anything and fled prior to police arrival. Numerous frontline officers responded to the area, including the RCMP Remotely Piloted Aircraft System (drone). Despite extensive efforts, no arrests were made that day.

Investigators reviewed CCTV footage and spoke with multiple witnesses, ultimately identifying two suspects known to police as being responsible for the assault.

On January 3, officers conducting proactive patrols in the 1300-block of Marine Drive recognized the two suspects from the CCTV footage. They were immediately taken into police custody.

“We’re relieved that no one suffered serious physical injuries, but the impact of this incident is still significant,” said Cpl. Mansoor Sahak, Media Relations Officer for North Vancouver RCMP. “Being bear‑sprayed in a confined space is extremely traumatic, and the employees involved have endured a great deal. We’re grateful for the community’s assistance and are pleased that arrests have now been made.”

Anyone who witnessed the incident and has not yet spoken with police is asked to call 604‑985‑1311 and quote file #25‑26345.