POLICE TARGET LOCAL DRUG SCENE

Kitimat RCMP made multiple arrests and drug seizures during the month
of May in the ongoing fight against illegal drug use and trafficking
in the region.

A recent survey of businesses and citizens in Kitimat identified drugs
and drug-related crime as one of the main public concerns. In 2009,
Kitimat RCMP made 20 drug-related arrests or seizures.

To date in 2010, there have been 16 drug-related police actions and
the number of drug-related incidents is again expected to increase
during the summer months.

During the month of May, Kitimat RCMP seized various drugs including
cocaine, marijuana and illegally-used prescription drugs from five
individuals during checkstops, searches related to other offences and
targeted drug sweeps.

Kitimat RCMP also executed a search warrant on a local residence and
seized cocaine packaged for sale along with various drug
paraphernalia.

Charges for possession for the purposes of trafficking will be laid as
a result of that search.

Under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the possession,
trafficking or possession for purposes of trafficking of scheduled
substances is illegal and punishments can range from fines to
imprisonment and forfeiture of property related to the offence.

The Criminal Code and Motor Vehicle Act also prohibit driving a motor
vehicle while impaired by drugs and such drivers will be prohibited
and have their vehicles impounded when caught.

Kitimat RCMP will be ramping up drug enforcement in the coming months
in their ongoing efforts to prevent the sale and use of illegal drugs
and the associated crimes in the Kitimat area.

Expect to see an increased police presence in areas suspected or known
to be popular for the sale and use of drugs and a crackdown on sale
and use of illegal drugs.

Anyone with information regarding the use, possession or sale of drugs
or any other criminal activity is asked to contact Kitimat RCMP or to
call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.