RCMP bust up Kelowna drug trafficking network

A series of coordinated raids by the Drugs and Organized Crime Unit in Kelowna earlier this month has disrupted a trafficking network.

The search warrants were executed in Kelowna and West Kelowna on June 2 and 3, with support from the Southeast District Emergency Response Team, according to an RCMP media release issued today, June 19.

RCMP say the initiative disrupted and dismantled a significant trafficking network.

Five homes were searched and officers seized five kilograms of drugs, $55,000 in cash and approximately $230,000 in high-end jewellery and luxury fashion items.

Police also seized 15 kg of a substance used as a cutting agent to dilute fentanyl to be sold on the street.

Three suspects were arrested during the operation and they have been released as the investigation continues and disclosure materials are prepared for the prosecution for charge assessment.

“We remain focused on disrupting mid- to high-level drug traffickers and organized crime groups to reduce the significant harm they cause in our community,” RCMP Staff Sgt. Desmond Kiehlbauch said in the release.