RCMP Officers from the Manitoba West District have made numerous arrests and laid over 100 charges as part of a long-term investigation known as Project DEMERIT.
On May 16, 2012, Officers from the RCMP Portage la Prairie General Investigation Section, with the assistance of RCMP Portage la Prairie Detachment, RCMP Emergency Response team, RCMP Police Dog Service, and members from the RCMP West, RCMP Headquarters Units and East District have charged over 30 people with a variety of offences associated to drug trafficking and are seeking an additional 2 individuals wanted in connection with this project.
Project DEMERIT was initiated in October, 2011, and focused on street level drug trafficking in the City of Portage la Prairie. This investigation was initiated by the Portage la Prairie RCMP General Investigation Section, and was supported by the RCMP West District.
During this investigation, RCMP members made numerous drug seizures, including cocaine, marijuana, and ecstasy with an estimated street value of more than $20,000.
“Trafficking of street drugs destroys lives, homes and communities” said Assistant Commissioner D.W. (Bill) Robinson, Commanding Officer of RCMP “D” Division. “Each and every arrest, project, seizure or investigation sends a message and makes a difference”
“Drug dealers are not welcome in Manitoba communities” said Chief Superintendent Scott Kolody, RCMP Criminal Operations Officer. “The RCMP will never stop trying to make Canadian streets safer”
“Fighting crime is a joint effort” said Inspector Jean-Marc Nadeau, Officer in Charge of the Central Plains Area “We encourage anyone with information on illegal drug activities to contact their local police or Manitoba Crime Stoppers if they wish to remain anonymous”
In addition, seven search warrants were executed resulting in the seizure of contraband cigarettes, firearms, prohibited weapons and a variety of street drugs.
