Eskasoni RCMP is investigating an incident of pointing a laser at an aircraft.

Earlier today at approximately 1:55 a.m., a Diamond A20 two-seat aircraft was flying out of Sydney destined for Moncton and had to divert back to Sydney when the pilot’s vision became impaired due to a laser beam pointing into the cockpit.

The laser beam had been pointed into the cockpit three times while flying over Eskasoni.

Officers from Eskasoni RCMP conducted several patrols in the area where the beams originated but were unable to locate any suspects. The investigation is continuing.

‘This is an extremely serious offence,’ says Cpl. Greg Church, Nova Scotia RCMP. ‘We want to remind citizens that the maximum penalty for aiming a laser into a cockpit is $100,000, five years in prison or both under the Aeronautics Act.’

If you believe you have any information regarding this incident, please contact the Eskasoni RCMP at 902-379-2822 or any RCMP Detachment, local police or Crime Stoppers anonymously anytime at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by their Secure Web Tips at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca. Calls to Crime Stoppers are not taped or traced and if police make an arrest and lay charges based on a tip, callers qualify for a cash award from $50 – $2000.

Source: Release