Gang unit seizes guns, drugs and makes arrests in South Okanagan

BC’s gang unit paid a visit to the South Okanagan last week and conducted an operation to crack down on drug trafficking.

Members of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit’s Uniform Gang Enforcement Team went to Princeton, Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos from Feb. 11 to 14 to target drug trafficking in the area, according to a press release from the special enforcement unit issued, Feb. 19.

The gang unit worked with Osoyoos RCMP to arrest a wanted high-risk criminal. Officers seized cash, drugs and weapons including guns and they also recovered a stolen vehicle.

“By targeting those who drive violence and instability, we are not only disrupting criminal networks but also preventing further harm. Our focus remains clear: remove dangerous offenders, take weapons off the streets, and protect the people who live and work in these communities,” the unit’s media relations officer Sgt. Sarbjit K. Sangha said in the release.

Penticton RCMP officer in charge Supt. Beth McAndie said the unit worked with her officers to make arrests in the city.

“We were able to safely apprehend high-risk offenders and disrupt drug trafficking activity before it escalated further. Our goal is not only enforcement, but prevention reducing the potential for violence and keeping our communities safe,” Supt. McAndie said in the release.

Anyone with information about gang activity or drug trafficking has been asked to contact police or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).