The Prince Albert Police Service has seized 86 firearms so far this year.

That number is double the total guns seized in other years, according to Insp. Jon Bergen. Police are saying this year alone is a significant increase over previous years.

“They’re being altered. They’re being sawn down, so that they can be easily concealed,” Bergen said. “They don’t possess them for a lawful purpose.”

In 2013, 40 firearms were seized, and in 2014, 39 guns were found. Last year, 47 guns were seized.

Police say the increased number of guns in Prince Albert is linked to street gangs and a rise in drug activity.

“We’re seeing a 26 per cent increase in drug offences. We recognize that as one of the root cause issues. Often, when we’re dealing with drug offences, we’re seeing the firearms,” Bergen said.

Police want to remind the public that legally owned firearms must be secured properly while being transported and stored.