On August 8, 2012, a joint three month investigation involving the RCMP Winnipeg Drug Section and the RCMP Ste Rose Detachment, lead to the execution of Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) search warrants on two properties in the RM of Alonsa near Cayer and Crane River, Manitoba.
Outdoor marihuana grow operations were located on both properties resulting in:
• 204 marijuana plants and 14 firearms seized from the property located near Crane River. A 49-year-old male and a 48-year-old female of the RM of Alonsa, were arrested and will face drugs and weapons charges. A house was also searched at this site where the firearms were seized.
• 725 marijuana plants, 1 firearm, and about 20 pounds of processed marijuana were seized from the property near Cayer. Three male individuals were arrested at this location. A 55-year-old of Cayer and a 26-year-old of Winnipeg will also face drugs and weapons charges. 42-year-old Micheal John McKinnon of no fixed address has been charged with growing marijuana and possession for the purpose of trafficking. He is currently in police custody and is scheduled to appear in Dauphin Court on August 14, 2012. The remaining individuals arrested were all released on a promise to appear in Dauphin Court on October 17, 2012.
Assistance in this investigation was also provided by the Manitoba West District, “D” Division Containment Team, Emergency Response Teams from both Manitoba and Saskatchewan as well as the “D” Division Police Dog Services.
The estimated street value of the drugs seized is about 1.3 million dollars.
The investigation continues.