CRACKDOWN NETS 97 GRAMS OF COCAINE

The latest bust in an ongoing anti-drug campaign by city RCMP resulted
in the seizure of 97 grams of crack cocaine and the arrest of a
Kamloops man.

Police said Thursday the 38-year-old suspect was arrested after
midnight at the Travelodge hotel on Columbia Street.The crack cocaine
seized had a street value of $8,000.

The suspect was also in possession of drug paraphernalia and a small
amount of cash. He appeared in Kamloops provincial court Thursday
charged with possession for the purpose or trafficking and trafficking
in a controlled substance.

RCMP Cpl. Mike Stewart said this was simply the latest bust in an
ongoing anti-drug campaign.

"Since Feb. 12, general duty and drug squad officers have raided six
crack houses and one marijuana grow operation. During these raids
numerous drugs and stolen property have been seized."

Marijuana, methamphetamines and magic mushrooms were among the drugs
seized. Cellphones have been counted among the stolen property.

"It's not uncommon to find between five and 10 cellphones in one
house. We've found as many as 100 cellphones in one residence."

The phones are commonly used by drug dealers to carry out their
business.

So far no weapons have been found.

Stewart said police will continue their efforts until the impact of
drug use in the city is reduced.

"These effects include property or violent crimes that result from the
presence of drugs in our community," he said.