A B.C. police unit has arrested multiple individuals for drug trafficking offences in the South Okanagan and Similkameen after being deployed to the region last week.
The anti-gang team from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia (CFSEU-BC), along with the RCMP, also arrested a “wanted high-risk offender” in Osoyoos before recovering a stolen vehicle and seizing illicit drugs, cash, and weapons, including firearms.
Officers were deployed to Princeton, Penticton, Oliver and Osoyoos, from Feb. 11 to 14, in response to “ongoing drug trafficking activity and emerging violence” in the South Okanagan and Similkameen.
CFSEU-BC called its deployment “a significant blow” to organized crime in the region, in a news release shared Thursday, Feb. 19.
“By targeting those who drive violence and instability, we are not only disrupting criminal networks but also preventing further harm,” Sgt. Sarbjit Sangha said.
“Our focus remains clear: remove dangerous offenders, take weapons off the streets, and protect the people who live and work in these communities.”
CFSEU-BC said it will continue to work closely with RCMP detachments across the province to identify and target individuals involved in organized crime.
Supt. Beth McAndie of the Penticton RCMP added that last week’s enforcement led to the arrest of high-risk offenders and disrupted “drug trafficking activity before it escalated further.”
“This operation highlights the strength of our partnerships and our shared commitment to protecting Okanagan communities,” McAndie said, referring to Penticton’s RCMP detachment working with the CFSEU-BC.
“Our goal is not only enforcement, but to reduce the potential for violence and to keep our communities safe.”
READ MORE: Man with lengthy criminal history arrested after Osoyoos standoff
<!– bAjeDo HAwW –>