Massive drug bust in Cold Lake

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.