Armed officers at Mosaic Stadium a surprise to some fans

While the end result may not have surprised fans at Friday’s Rider game, the presence of two Regina police officers sure did.

A photo was circulating on social media showing two officers in full tactical gear carrying carbine rifles at Mosaic Stadium.

Well, we now know what #yqr police response to Edmonton and Las Vegas attacks looks like: Carbines at tonight's Riders game. pic.twitter.com/VzDtcqhCwB

— Austin M. Davis (@theAustinX) October 14, 2017

Regina police Chief Evan Bray confirmed the officers were there at the request of the CFL.

And while the image bothered only some, Bray maintained it is an unusual sight in the city.

“We don’t carry those as a manner of regular practice,” Bray explained. “When we are out in the public they are always in the car and they’re only brought out in a situation when we would need them.”

Not every fan at the game was concerned, with Bray contending that many fans took selfies with the officers.

“Some children might think that looks cool to see a police officer there dressed in their tactical gear, others might be frightened by that and that isn’t something we want either,” Bray said.

Regina’s police chief thinks it is a worthwhile discussion to have right now as events in Edmonton and Las Vegas are front of mind.

He believed the image of armed officers at public events could alarm some people.

“Although the CFL is really looking to amp it security I think we need to just make sure we measure it each time with the balance of public safety and perception as well,” Bray maintained.

As well as the two officers in Mosaic Stadium there was also extra security inside and outside the stadium.

Bray expects that will continue.