DRUG BUST SURPRISES HANNA RESIDENTS

Hanna Herald -- Hanna was vaulted into the spotlight last week when a local
man was arrested as part of a drug sting.

Charges in the case include two counts of conspiracy to produce
methamphetamine and two counts of conspiracy to export a controlled substance.

RCMP officers from both the local detachment and the drug unit from
Edmonton descended upon an auto restoration business to execute a search
warrant as part of Operation Diversion.

Approximately 50 kilograms of ephedrine, one of the components used in the
manufacture of the drug methamphetamine, was found in the business.

The materials seized in the raid could have been used to make $1 million
worth of methamphetamine.

Constable Larry Peyton is satisfied that local officers were able to help
in the Operation Diversion but also believes that local people should
become more aware of what is happening in their community.

"We are very pleased to have assisted in such a large investigation," said
Cst. Peyton.

"I think an investigation and seizure of this type in a small rural town
such as Hanna should be a wake up call to all of us."

Mayor Pat Burns is one of those people who was caught off guard by the drug
raid in town.

"I was surprised at the magnitude of the bust," said Mayor Burns.

Operation Diversion involved simultaneous raids across North America.

Across Canada, more than 10,000 kg of ephedrine and $3.5 million in cash
and weapons were seized. Additionally soft body armour, steroids, computers
and approximately $205 thousand worth of vehicles were taken.

So far, 17 individuals have either been arrested or are being sought by police.

Locally, Aubrey Bruno, 44 of Hanna has been charged.