A major drug bust near Wainwright, Alberta has led to the seizure of 20 kilograms of methamphetamine hidden in a vehicle’s secret compartment, according to Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT).
The street value of the meth is estimated at $800,000.
The bust was carried out on April 9, by ALERT Edmonton’s organized crime team following a traffic stop roughly 200 km southeast of Edmonton.
Investigators believe the vehicle, driven by a lone occupant, had picked up the shipment in Winnipeg and was en route to Edmonton.
“Organized crime doesn’t operate within the confines of borders. It is a sophisticated enterprise that spans provinces and jurisdictions,” said Insp. Angela Kemp.
“We are grateful for the help from our policing partners in Saskatchewan and Manitoba to keep this large quantity of drugs from being circulated in Edmonton.”
Following the vehicle stop, ALERT executed search warrants at two Edmonton residences, leading to additional seizures that included:
20,500 grams of methamphetamine
3,100 grams of cocaine
700 grams of a cocaine buffing agent
23 grams of fentanyl
A prohibited handgun equipped with a suppressor
A loaded shotgun
Counterfeit currency
A courier vehicle with a hidden compartment
$31,075 in cash
The seized firearms have been submitted to the province’s Firearms Solutions Lab for analysis and ballistics testing. The vehicle and cash are being considered for civil forfeiture.
Two suspects were taken into custody, but no charges have been laid as the investigation remains active. Police are currently preparing reports and disclosure for Crown Counsel, with charges expected at a later date.
The Winnipeg Police Service, Saskatoon Police Service, and Edmonton Police Service all assisted in the investigation.
Members of the public with information on drug or gang activity are encouraged to contact local police or reach out anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).