Christmas drug busts continues in Calgary

Police continue to target drug trafficking and related crime in downtown Calgary, with a major operation during November and December 2010.

Calgary Police Service members from a number of areas, including District 1, District 3, as well as the Drug Unit, recently conducted an operation targeting drug trafficking.

The operation focused on identifying criminal activity through uniform and plainclothes officers, as well as undercover officers.

Due to the fact that those involved in the drug trade often target homeless citizens, part of the operation focused on Calgary’s East Village, particularly areas surrounding social agencies. These locations were chosen based on concerns by agency staff and clients, as well as the general community.

Based on intelligence gathered, as well as community feedback, other focus areas included Bridgeland, the island area adjacent to the zoo, as well as river pathways.

While intelligence gathering occurred over several months, the investigative portion of the operation began on Monday, Nov. 1, 2010.

During the operation, 39 suspects were identified and a total of 191 Controlled Drug and Substances Act and Criminal Code charges were laid.

The process of arresting individuals began on Tuesday, Nov. 29, 2010. To date, 24 people have been arrested.

Of the 39 identified targets in this operation, 11 had been arrested and charged in previous operations.
 

The Calgary Police Service works with the community to address issues of crime. In the downtown area, officers continue to utilize beat patrols, the Mountain Bike Unit, vehicle patrols and drug operations to combat drug activity.