Over the weekend, Saanich Police sent in a large police presence after receiving a call that a man was “waving a sword around” at Commonwealth Place.
At around 12:30 p.m. on Saturday, January 13th, Saanich Police said they received a call from concerned Commonwealth Place staff regarding the man with the sword, so they responded as they felt appropriate given the information they had.
“During this instance, SPD officers responded swiftly to a potentially dynamic situation,” said Sgt. Damian Kowalewich.
In this instance, a witness told Victoria Buzz that Saanich Police responded with at least six police cruisers and officers equipped with automatic rifles.
To this, Kowalewich said that patrol officers deploy their force options as needed based on each individual call for service. He added that the caller’s observations can influence police response.
“Although officers deployed with firearms during their response, they determined there was no threat and entered into dialogue with the male who was cooperative,” Kowalewich told Victoria Buzz.
In the end, officers on site determined that the male was simply practicing tai chi with a practice sword.
Tai chi is a Chinese martial art practiced for self-defense and health purposes and is known for its slow, intentional movements.
Police say staff were advised of the outcome.
