Pubdate: Thu, 02 Feb 2012 Source: Lac du Bonnet Leader (CN MB) Copyright: 2012 Sun Media Contact: http://www.lacdubonnetleader.com/feedback1/LetterToEditor.aspx Website: http://www.lacdubonnetleader.com/ Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/2956 Author: Marc Zienkiewicz POWERVIEW, FORT ALEC AMONG TOP 14 FOR DRUG SEIZURES RCMP say Powerview and Fort Alexander are two of Manitoba's illegal drug "hot spots." At a news conference yesterday held to illustrate the damaging effects of drugs on rural communities, police revealed data showing 18 drug seizures in the area in 2011, placing the community in the Top 14 in the province. Clocking in at No. 3 was the nearby community of Selkirk. Drug use does appear to be rising in the region. According to Lac du Bonnet RCMP stats, there were five drug-related charges in the RM of Alexander last year. There were none the year prior, according to the data. "The drug trade endangers public safety and fuels organized crime. By disrupting the drug trade, the RCMP and their partners are making our streets and communities safer," said Provencher MP and federal Public Safety Minister Vic Toews. "The government stands firm in its ongoing commitment to tackling drug-related crime. We do not tolerate the production, trafficking or distribution of illegal drugs in this country." Manitobans can play a part in making their families and their communities safer, RCMP note. To report suspected drug activity in your community, contact your RCMP detachment or local police service. If you wish to remain anonymous, call Manitoba Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS). - --- MAP posted-by: Richard R Smith Jr.