MULTI-CITY DRUG BUST NETS 41 ARRESTS

A 10-month drug investigation that swept across seven northern Alberta
towns has resulted in 84 trafficking charges against 41 people.

After noticing an increase in property crimes related to the drug trade,
the Peace River General Investigation Section began the operation in
October 2003.

The investigation spread to High Prairie, McLennan, Peace River, Fairview,
Assumption, High Level and Fort Vermilion.

Charges are pending against 41 people for trafficking of crack cocaine,
marijuana, hashish, magic mushrooms and various prescription drugs.

RCMP spokesman Cpl. Wayne Oakes called the undercover operation a huge
success. Removing so many suspected drug suppliers from the streets would
have a huge impact on users, he said.

The operation, which concluded in late June, also involved members of
various RCMP detachments and of the Edmonton Police Service.

Although charges have not yet been brought against all 41 suspects, all of
them are pending.

Oakes said police noticed the increase in drug use through community
feedback and the type of crimes being committed in the towns.

"Because of the highly addictive nature of these products, people have a
huge desire for more, which leads to them committing more property crimes.
That's a pretty good indication that you've got a drug problem in the
community."

Oakes said that quick burglaries -- a kicked-in door and a fast grab -- are
common among users looking for something to sell for drug money.

While methamphetamines are popular in other parts of the province,
including Edmonton, Oakes said the highly-addictive drug didn't appear much
in the northern sweep.

High Prairie mayor John Brodrick welcomed the operation, saying drugs --
especially crack cocaine -- are becoming a serious problem in his town.

"Drugs are the choice of most of our teenagers these days, and that really
scares me," he said. "It is still the No. 1 problem among our youth."

Brodrick said RCMP told him of the arrests last week, but he didn't know
how many were made in High Prairie.

While the operation will not eradicate the town's drug problems, he said,
it will make a significant dent.

"Hopefully it will put people on guard and shorten the supply in town.
Availability is a big thing."