A lengthy investigation by the Cold Lake RCMP General Investigations Section (GIS) has culminated in one of the largest drug seizures in the area's history.
Dubbed Project K-NANOSECOND, the operation targeted a group of individuals trafficking cocaine in Cold Lake and surrounding areas.
On February 25, authorities executed six search warrants in various locations, including three residences, a commercial property, and a residence in the hamlet of Ardmore and a dwelling unit in Edmonton.
The searches yielded:
Approximately 1 kilogram of suspected cocaine
Approximately 1 kilogram of suspected fentanyl
Approximately 5 kilograms of a suspected cocaine cutting agent, benzocaine
Approximately $68,000 in Canadian currency
23 firearms, including 4 restricted handguns
A Range Rover SUV and a Ford F350 Super Duty Truck
Three individuals have been charged in connection with the investigation:
Francois Poulet (31), a resident of Cold Lake, faces charges including possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime.
Cameron Pike (62), also a resident of Cold Lake, has been charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, and careless use of a firearm.
Nicholas Deboeck (33), a resident of Ardmore, has been charged with trafficking in a controlled substance.
All three individuals were released with conditions and are scheduled to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Cold Lake on March 19, 2025.