Key Takeaways
- Calgary police, the RCMP, and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) arrested and charged two people with multiple drug and weapons charges after receiving a tip from German police.
- Over $900,000 worth of drugs, including ketamine, hydromorphone, and cocaine, were seized, along with a loaded handgun and assorted drug paraphernalia.
- The two accused, a 36-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman, face multiple charges, including possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and importing narcotics.
- The seizure and arrests are a significant step in protecting the community from the harm and violence associated with organized drug trafficking.
Introduction to the Case
Calgary police, in collaboration with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), have made a significant breakthrough in a drug smuggling case. The investigation began when German border authorities alerted Calgary police and the CBSA about a large shipment of drugs arriving at Calgary International Airport. This tip led to the seizure of the shipment and the subsequent execution of a search warrant on an address in the 500 block of Cantrell Place, southwest, in the community of Canyon Meadows.
The Search Warrant and Seizure
On November 21, Calgary police officers executed the search warrant, resulting in the seizure of a substantial amount of drugs and a loaded handgun. The items seized included 12.9 kilograms of ketamine, 89.2 grams of hydromorphone, 26.4 grams of cocaine, a loaded SR9 handgun, 9mm ammunition, and assorted drug paraphernalia, such as packaging and a scale. The total value of the seized drugs is estimated to be over $900,000. The discovery of a loaded handgun and ammunition highlights the potential danger and violence associated with organized drug trafficking.
Charges and Accused
The two accused, a 36-year-old man and a 34-year-old woman, have each been charged with multiple counts, including three counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, one count of importing narcotics, and one count of possession of the proceeds of crime. They also face charges related to the hazardous storage of a firearm, possession of a weapon dangerous to the public, and unauthorized possession of a restricted weapon. The severity of the charges reflects the seriousness of the alleged offenses and the potential harm caused by the accused’s actions.
Impact on the Community
The seizure of over $900,000 worth of drugs and a loaded firearm is a significant step in protecting the community from the violence and harm associated with organized drug trafficking. As Staff Sgt. Kerry Parsons of the Calgary police noted, "Removing over $900,000 worth of drugs, along with a loaded firearm from circulation, is a major step in protecting our community from the violence and harm that often accompany organized drug trafficking." The collaborative effort between law enforcement agencies and the CBSA has resulted in a substantial disruption to the alleged drug smuggling operation, making the community a safer place.
Conclusion
The arrest and charging of the two accused individuals, along with the seizure of a significant amount of drugs and a loaded handgun, demonstrate the effectiveness of collaborative law enforcement efforts in combating organized crime. The case highlights the importance of international cooperation, as the initial tip from German police played a crucial role in the investigation. As the accused face multiple charges, the community can take comfort in knowing that law enforcement agencies are working to protect them from the harm caused by drug trafficking and related violence. The successful outcome of this investigation serves as a reminder of the commitment of law enforcement agencies to keeping the community safe and holding those who engage in organized crime accountable for their actions.
