RCMP raided a construction firm Wednesday involved in Winnipeg’s downtown police headquarters project. They confirmed an investigation is underway into the project.
RCMP were on scene at Caspian on McGillivray Boulevard on Dec. 17.
RCMP have been reviewing audits and other material into the police station project that went nearly $75 million over budget.
In July, city council asked Manitoba Justice to look at the files. Manitoba Justice then passed it onto the RCMP.
Wednesday afternoon, RCMP released more details, saying they completed a review of the forensic audit into the construction of the Winnipeg Police Service headquarters and "this is now considered a full investigation."
"On December 17, 2014, the RCMP executed a search warrant at a local business in Winnipeg. This search warrant was in relation to this investigation," said RCMP in a release.
Last week, reports said a letter was given to the justice minister, alleging invoices for the headquarters project were inflated and an unspecified member of city council received a payment.
Mounties walked out of Caspian with bags and also hauled out computers Wednesday.
"I am fully confident that the RCMP and Manitoba Justice are doing what they should do based upon the law and moving forward,” said Coun. John Orlikow (River Heights-Fort Garry).
The new mayor said he welcomes the probe and reiterated his pledge that if anyone is guilty of wrongdoing, they will be fired.
“We'll be working with the RCMP to make sure any results coming from the RCMP's work (are) immediately implemented. We'll be working with legal counsel to take appropriate steps as that information becomes apparent to us," said Brian Bowman.
CTV tried to contact the owner of Caspian on Wednesday for comment, but attempts were unsuccessful.
No charges have been laid in the investigation.
RCMP said one team of investigators is investigating the police headquarters project, while another team has been reviewing the Winnipeg Fire Paramedic station projects.
-with a report from Jeff Keele
