Calgary Police Lay 268 Charges After Undercover Drug Trafficking Operation Along CTrain Stations

According to the Calgary police, 268 criminal charges have been laid against 40 people in a three-week undercover drug trafficking operation along CTrain lines.

In a press release issued by the Calgary police on Thursday, the Drug Undercover Street Team (DUST) worked at CTrain stations where data showed the highest call volume from the public in relation to crime and social disorder.

According to the release, “the purpose of the operation was to disrupt drug trafficking in these locations by arresting drug traffickers and imposing conditions of release that may deter the continuation of drug-related crimes in these areas.”

“In total, there were 58 undercover drug purchases involving 40 alleged drug traffickers”, said the police. Among the drugs seized were Fentanyl, methamphetamine, cocaine, morphine and xanex. The police also said 21 knives, two machetes, two hatchets, one can of bear spray, one BB gun, two Airsoft pistols and one handgun were the weapons located by DUST during the arrests.

Chief Constable Mark Neufeld said in the release “while our officers are leading with support and compassion, make no mistake that enforcement is a critical component of the equation to public safety.”

Neufeld further explained that “there are no illegitimate users of transit, but there are illegitimate uses of transit. Our expectation is that public spaces remain safe for those that are using them for their intended purpose. Anyone who jeopardizes that safety, will be dealt with accordingly.”

“Recognizing some of the drug traffickers were also addicts, the officers provided literature and contact information for organizations that assist in securing treatment, shelter and employment to all those who were arrested”, stated the release.

DUST also worked with the Calgary Drug Treatment Court, ensuring all those who were arrested would be evaluated to see if CDTC was an option. DUST also notified the “Calgary Indigenous Court for culturally-appropriate assistance.”

Investigation is still ongoing, according to the police. The police also thanked Calgary Transit Officers who “were instrumental in the operation by assisting with arrest and transportation teams.”

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