Kelowna RCMP seize drugs and firearm in separate investigations

Kelowna RCMP’s Crime Reduction Unit and Gang Enforcement Team are making what they call significant progress in the fight against illicit drugs, seizing large quantities of narcotics and a firearm in two separate investigations this month.

On March 13, officers from the Gang Enforcement Team stopped a suspicious vehicle during routine patrol. A search of the vehicle turned up a loaded handgun and drugs believed to be packaged for sale. “These traffic stops are an important part of our efforts to remove dangerous weapons and substances from the community,” said Corporal Steven Lang, RCMP media relations officer.

A few days later, the Crime Reduction Unit executed a search warrant at a residence on Lawrence Avenue as part of a separate drug trafficking investigation. Officers seized 307 grams of suspected methamphetamine, 117 grams of suspected fentanyl, 53 grams of suspected cocaine, 45 millilitres of suspected gamma hydroxybutyrate, 47 tablets of suspected prescription opioids, drug trafficking equipment, and nearly six thousand dollars in cash. Seven people were taken into custody, and charges are now under review by the BC Prosecution Service.

“Kelowna RCMP remains committed to disrupting the supply of toxic illicit drugs and reducing the associated risks to public safety,” Lang said. “These investigations demonstrate our continued focus on addressing drug-related activity both at identified problem locations and through proactive enforcement in the community.”

The RCMP emphasized that operations like these are designed to reduce the availability of dangerous drugs and help protect residents from the crime and violence that can be linked to illicit drug activity.