Handgun and drugs seized by enforcement unit

Police say a recent traffic stop in Kelowna highlights the dangers their officers face on a daily basis.

Members of the RCMP’s Proactive Enforcement Unit stopped a vehicle on Fleming Drive at Leathead Road on Dec. 1 after it departed what officers say was a “a nearby problem residence.”

“The male passenger, who is well known to police, was arrested for failing to abide by his curfew while the female driver was arrested for possession of a controlled substance,” Cpl. Michael Gauthier, media relations officer, said.

The officers located and seized a handgun along with a large quantity of illicit drugs including methamphetamine, fentanyl and dilaudid pills.

The female driver was released on scene after the vehicle was impounded for pre-existing Motor Vehicle Act charges while the male passenger remains in custody. The male is scheduled to appear in court on Dec. 20.

“This incident highlights the uncertainty and extreme risks our officers face each and every day,” Gauthier said. “This team is routinely delivering results targeting those repeatedly committing crime in our community and undoubtedly prevented something violent from happening down the road.”