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We all know that the drug trade in our city is a ruthless and often violent business.

Winnipeg police often share information on drug busts, seizures of illegal weapons and arrests of those working on that side of the law which illustrate the nature of the illegal drug trade.

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So it was interesting this week when police announced they’d confiscated a “target shooting” weapon in what they call a “straw purchase” — a weapon bought legally which is then sold for criminal use.

Many would say if there was a ban on these types of weapons police wouldn’t have to seize them and people wouldn’t be killed with them.

However, police said criminals will get their guns through whatever means are available — purchasing legally obtained weapons, smuggling or break-ins.

Winnipeg police Insp. Max Waddell told reporters this week that he doesn’t believe a gun ban would do much to stop the 58% increase in gun violence Winnipeg has experience over the past five years.