The RCMP Manitoba Organized Crime Unit (MOCU) conducted a seven-month investigation, Project DEBRIS, which involved the dismantling of a drug trafficking network that was directly responsible for supplying controlled substances (methamphetamine, cocaine, and fentanyl) to the Brandon and Western Manitoba area, and had ties to British Columbia. This investigation involved officers from the Manitoba RCMP, Brandon Police Service, and Rivers Police Service.
On April 20, 2021, MOCU, with the assistance of Brandon Police Service, Rivers Police Service, Manitoba RCMP East and West District Crime Reduction Enforcement Support Teams, and the Portage La Prairie RCMP General Investigation Section, simultaneously executed seven search warrants at various locations in the City of Brandon and the Riverdale Municipality.
Police say that approximately $17,000 dollars was seized, along with a quantity of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl. Evidence to support high level drug trafficking was seized along with 14 firearms. Police noted that a Honda Goldwing motorcycle stolen from British Columbia was recovered, as well, several motorcycles were seized as proceeds of crime, including two Harley Davidsons.
RCMP report that seven people were arrested and charged with a multitude of drug and firearm related offences. Five additional subjects have warrants for arrest with similar charges.
The investigation is ongoing and will likely result in more arrests.
MOCU is a unit within the Manitoba RCMP that targets, disrupts, and dismantles criminal organizations and street gangs. It is also focused on disrupting the trafficking of weapons and high risk controlled substances (including methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl) within Manitoba.
