Pubdate: Mon, 03 Feb 2014
Source: Guardian, The (CN PI)
Copyright: 2014 The Guardian, Charlottetown Guardian Group Incorporated
Contact:  http://www.theguardian.pe.ca/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/174

CITY DRUG RAIDS DRAW ATTENTION TO BIG PROBLEM

Operation Clean Sweep Makes Dent; Alarming Numbers Cause for Concern

As Islanders awoke early Thursday morning they were greeted with the 
startling news that an enormous drug sweep was underway throughout 
Charlottetown. Early reports indicated that upwards of 40 people were 
facing arrest on drug related charges as more than 15 residences and 
properties were being searched.

The first reaction was why would police be tipping off suspects so 
they could escape or destroy evidence? It soon became apparent that 
by the time the news went public, most of the key police work was 
done. Officers were busy for several hours beforehand and had alerted 
the media to allay any fears for people seeing scores of officers and 
emergency vehicles swarming throughout the city.

Based on what we saw over the next day or so, it appears we are 
facing an emergency. The sheer volume of trafficking in hard drugs, 
possession of dangerous weapons and the large number of people 
suspected of involvement in such activities is alarming.

Police seized drugs valued at more than $ 400,000, plus guns, other 
weapons, cash and 11 vehicles. Sixteen searches were made, 38 people 
arrested and more are being sought. Approximately 100 charges are 
expected. Dozens of City police officers were assisted by Kensington, 
Summerside and RCMP personnel.

It was an impressive display of investigative police work and co- 
operation. As the suspects were taken into court Friday morning, 
police already had a press kit ready with a list of names, addresses 
and charges for distribution to media.

It was apparent that police were targeting suspects for some time and 
had encountered few surprises.

Operation Clean Sweep involved more than four months of patient 
police work and showed clearly that police are well aware of the 
inner workings of the drug trade in the city and know the key players.

The raids show we have a serious drug problem, especially in the 
trafficking and possession of cocaine and hydromorphone. It also 
shows we have an adept police service which is well aware of what's 
going on with drug trafficking.

Police believe they made a significant dent in the drug supply chain. 
Anything that keeps drugs off the street, especially away from 
schools and young people is a good thing.
- ---
MAP posted-by: Jay Bergstrom