Drugs, cash and more seized from the illicit drug market in downtown Kelowna (photo courtesy of the RCMP)

By Liam Verster

Downtown Drug Market Shut Down

Drug trafficking operation in downtown Kelowna shut down

Nov 12, 2024 | 1:19 PM

Police have shut down an open-air drug market operating out of Kelowna’s downtown core.

Kelowna RCMP”s Community Safety Unit concluded its operation aimed at disrupting the market targeting the vulnerable population in the area Tuesday, Nov. 5.

The police operation led to multiple arrests; the seizure of large quantities of substances, potentially totaling thousands of lethal doses; and approximately $27,000 worth of proceeds of crime.

“Our goal with this project was to make a meaningful impact toward safeguarding the downtown community from the harmful impacts of illicit drug activities in hopes that this effort will contribute to both a reduction in social disorder and, most importantly, the overdose incidents in the downtown area,” Sergeant Scott Powrie, said.

“We remain present and dedicated to proactive and collaborative efforts partnering with both the City of Kelowna Bylaws and the Kelowna Downtown Association to address issues affecting public safety and quality of life in our downtown community. Expect more enforcement to come.”

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The initiative focused on the illicit sale of toxic drugs was launched in response to concerns from residents, visitors and businesses in downtown Kelowna.