POLICE – Weapons and cash seized in response to drug-conflict violence

A targeted response to the recent violence in Kamloops led to police officers seizing guns, weapons, and drugs during a recent enforcement blitz.

As part of proactive efforts to suppress public violence following a string of shootings connected to a dispute between two local drug traffickers, Kamloops RCMP requested and received the support of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit British Columbia (CFSEU-BC) and Uniform Gang Enforcement Team (UGET) in deploying additional resources.

Police said in a news release today (May 17, 2024) that since May 5, 2024, the strategy has resulted in the seizure of nine firearms, knives, a hatchet, machete, ammunition, baton, about $20,000 in cash believed to be associated to drug trafficking, and various narcotics including fentanyl, meth, cocaine, and crack.

“This last week’s police presence should send a clear message to the drug traffickers in Kamloops who continue to prey on the vulnerable and threaten the sense of safety and security of our residents: there is no place for you here,” said Supt. Jeff Pelley, Kamloops RCMP detachment officer in charge.

“Since May 5, there have been two UGET deployments in Kamloops so far, along with increased efforts and focus by numerous local detachment supports, including the Crime Reduction and Targeted Enforcement Units,” Pelley said.

“The additional enforcement is intended to address the ongoing effects of a conflict between two drug traffickers, which is believed to have begun in March.”

The public nature of the violence recently escalated from a series of arsons, to shootings at the beginning of the month, prompting police to issue a public warning.

“With the recent crime and violence in Kamloops, our Uniform Gang Enforcement Team (UGET) was able to deploy quickly to the area to assist our partners in disrupting and suppressing gang-related violence associated to the local drug-trade,” said Supt. Alison Laurin, CFSEU-BC’s deputy operations support officer.

“CFSEU-BC is committed to assisting our partners around the province in fulfilling our mandate to target those individuals who pose the highest risk to public safety.”

As Kamloops heads into the long weekend, the community can continue to expect an increased focus on targeting those associated to the illegal drug trade, said Pelley.

Anyone who has information related to the recent violence, drug conflict, or who witnesses suspicious activity is encouraged to contact police as soon as possible. The Kamloops RCMP Detachment can be reached at 250-828-3000 or in the case of an emergency, 911.