Items seized as a result of Project DAMPER.
RCMP Officers from the West District made numerous arrests and have laid 35 charges as part of a long-term investigation known as Project DAMPER.
Officers from Dauphin, Swan River, Wasagaming and Elphinstone Detachments arrested seven people on a variety of offences associated to drug trafficking and are seeking an additional 4 individuals wanted in connection with this project.
Project DAMPER was initiated on July 26 and largely focused on street level drug trafficking in the RCMP West District.
This long-term investigation was initiated by the RCMP West District, based on intelligence gathered by Detachment members. The RCMP West District coordinated this investigation with the assistance of the Dauphin Major Crime Unit, the RCMP Division Criminal Analysis Section and the RCMP Police Dog Service.
During this investigation, RCMP members made numerous drug seizures. Seized during the investigation was cocaine, marijuana and synthetic drugs with an estimated street value of about $8,500.
Two subsequent search warrants were executed on drug related offences resulting in the seizure of drugs, cash and a stolen sawed-off shotgun.
“Drug use and the criminality that surrounds it harm individuals and communities. It destroys lives.” said Chief Superintendent Scott Kolody, Acting Commanding Officer of RCMP “D” Division. “Our message is clear: Drug dealing is not a welcomed activity in Manitoba communities and we will do everything we can to disrupt it.”
“I’m very pleased with the results of Project DAMPER,” said Superintendent Glen Siegersma, Officer in Charge of the RCMP West District. “Street-level drug dealers are not the top echelon of organized crime but they are the suppliers in our communities. While they don’t deal in large quantities of drugs, their activities have a tremendous impact.”
In total 11 people are facing 35 charges in this Project. All persons arrested will be appearing in their respective jurisdiction. Some will be released and compelled to court while others, depending on the circumstances, have been remanded in custody.
