Site of RCMP bust on 24th Avenue in Vernon.  (Photo by Liam Verster / Vernon Matters)

By Liam Verster

Drug Bust

Drugs seized, 19 arrested in Vernon raid

Dec 2, 2021 | 2:38 PM

Vernon North Okanagan RCMP, with support from front line officers, arrested 19 individuals and seized an undisclosed amount of illicit substances during a drug bust In Vernon this morning.

Officers executed three search warrants issued under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act at four properties in the 3000-block of 24th Avenue at around 11 a.m. Dec. 2.

The search led to the arrests of 19 individuals and the seizure of undisclosed amounts of suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine, several edged weapons, cash, a firearm, and items associated with drug trafficking.

“The search warrants come as a direct result of our efforts to target and disrupt drug trafficking and other criminal activity in our community,” said Cst. Chris Terleski. media relations officer.

“The Vernon North Okanagan RCMP will continue to take aggressive action in an effort to reduce the supply of deadly illicit drugs being trafficked in our community.”

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It’s not yet known if all the individuals were associated with one trafficking group or if they were known to each other, but Terleski said they were all involved in street-level drug selling, and this bust could be helpful in the fight against drug trafficking locally.

“Our targeted policing unit and our officers, through their enhanced downtown enforcement activities and this initiative, are continuing to target and disrupt that street level drug trafficking. So obviously the effects are going to be determined, or are yet to be seen.”

Terleski confirmed that there was no equipment at any of the properties to indicate that these residences were being used as production laboratories.

Six of the 19 individuals arrested remain in custody, one of whom was wanted on an outstanding warrant.

The investigation into the case is ongoing. Once complete, the findings will be turned over to the B.C. Prosecution Service and the Public Prosecution Service of Canada for charge approval.