Police arrest seven suspects, execute three search warrants in drug-ring investigation

NEWS/ POLICE — RCMP have made seven arrests and executed three search warrants in connection with an ongoing investigation of a drug distribution network.

Supt. Brad Mueller, officer in charge of the City detachment, said today the Kamloops Targeted Enforcement Unit (TEU) executed the search warrants and made the arrests on Wednesday and Thursday last week.

“The investigation was aimed at disrupting and dismantling a drug distribution network operating in Kamloops with ties to gang activity, firearms, and stolen property,” he stated in a news release.

“Information received through previous investigations led Kamloops Targeted Enforcement Unit to focus on the recent activities of an individual who is known to police.”

Six of those arrested were released with future court dates pending and one was remanded in custody with a bail hearing taking place today.

Several charges have been laid against 36-year-old Kamloops resident Jason Robertson, including eight counts under the Criminal Code for possession of stolen property, possession of stolen firearms and unsafe storage of firearms.

Police anticipate that additional charges will be laid in connection with the investigation, which has spanned three months.

“The success of this file is due to an intelligence-led, integrated approach,” Mueller stated. “An example of this integration is when members of the Kamloops TEU, with the assistance of 100 Mile House RCMP members, initiated a vehicle stop as part of this investigation.

“This vehicle stop resulted in the arrest of two individuals and the seizure of 12 pounds of marijuana and approximately 10 oz. of cocaine.

“Subsequent to the vehicle stop, three search warrants were executed at three separate residences within the city of Kamloops. Two of the residences searched turned up drugs and trafficking paraphernalia.

“The third residence search resulted in the seizure of over 40 firearms, including assault rifles, stolen firearms and other prohibited devices.”

Also seized from this residence was about $50,000 in cash, he said.

“An investigation such as this is a major disruption to the drug and gang activity in Kamloops and surrounding area. This type of investigation involves all levels of policing within our detachment, starting with the street level investigators who have regular contact with criminals and conduct checks on known offenders.

“The criminal intelligence and crime reduction units contribute to such investigations through source information and dealing with prolific offenders.”

Mueller thanked the public for its assistance in reporting crime.

And finally Kamloops RCMP would like to thank the public for their assistance in reporting crime. Without your assistance, we would not have the same level of information to have successes such as these. Kamloops RCMP continues their commitment to safe home and safe communities.

 

 

 

Released by:

 

Supt. Brad Mueller

Officer in Charge

Kamloops Detachment