DRUG CRACKDOWN HITS CORE

Police arrested more than 100 people and laid nearly 290 charges in a
recent two-week drug sweep of Calgary's downtown core. From May 18 to June
4, Operation Safe Streets -- a task force made up of members of the drug
and vice units as well as other members of the Calgary Police Service --
hit high drug areas, such as the East Village and other places known for
dope dealing and open drug use.

"We've been able to actively impact a lot of these hot spots," said police
Insp. Dan Jahrig.

"While this particular operation was targeted in the downtown core, this is
part of an on-going service-wide initiative," added Staff Sgt. Trevor
Daroux, of the drug unit.

"Enforcement, education, intervention, treatment and deterrence all play a
crucial role in getting illegal drugs off our streets."

"Violence, organized crime and drug-related criminal activity can be linked
to the illicit drug trade," Daroux said.

"It's important we send a clear message the illicit drug trade will
continue to be targeted by police."

Cops said the majority of drug activity targeted by Operation Safe Streets
was conducted in parks, green spaces and roadways.

"Crack cocaine and marijuana were seized," Daroux said, but was unable to
say how much dope and cash was a seized during the operation.

The majority of the 102 people arrested had criminal histories, including
crimes of violence, property offences, and in one case, a man was wanted
for questioning in a Winnipeg homicide.