Maple Ridge RCMP seize fentanyl, meth in downtown drug crackdown
Maple Ridge RCMP seized significant quantities of fentanyl, methamphetamine and other drugs while arresting suspected dealers and prolific property offenders during a series of downtown enforcement operations this summer.
On Aug. 14, the detachment announced its Strike Force Unit arrested six people for alleged drug trafficking offences during four days of proactive patrols between late June and early July, while another two people were arrested on outstanding warrants.
Officers seized more than 100 grams of fentanyl, along with 45 grams of methamphetamine, 43 grams of MDMA and 20 grams of crack cocaine, police said.
One person arrested with what RCMP described as a substantial quantity of drugs is also being held for possible deportation under federal immigration legislation pending an immigration hearing.
Police said the enforcement has continued into August. Last Friday, officers executing a search warrant at a Maple Ridge apartment complex seized another 28 grams of methamphetamine.
The operations are part of an effort by the detachment’s specialized units to target drug trafficking, street disorder and property crime, particularly in downtown Maple Ridge.
The RCMP’s Crime Reduction Unit has also been focusing on prolific property offenders and maintaining a visible police presence in the downtown core.
During a two-day retail theft enforcement blitz in late July, officers arrested seven people described by police as prolific property offenders.
RCMP said officers are regularly meeting with businesses and loss prevention officers while monitoring whether repeat offenders are complying with conditions imposed following their release.
Police are also working with probation, corrections and mental health partners in cases involving people with more complex needs.
“Our specialized teams will continue to enforce high-priority drug-related offences and associated behaviour in our city while at the same time working with our partners to address the ongoing mental health and toxic drug crisis across the region,” Staff Sgt. Chris Kelly said.
Kelly said the goal is to improve public safety and reduce calls for police service through “visible, proactive, and data-driven policing” alongside residents and businesses.
The detachment said its Community Safety Dashboards remain available online, providing residents with information about policing and crime trends in Maple Ridge.
