Surrey RCMP says the completion of 43 drug investigations into known gang members has resulted in 14 people facing charges such as possession for trafficking, firearm offences and seizures.
The charges come as a result of a combined, two-month “violence suppression initiative” by Surrey RCMP’s Gang Enforcement Team and Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit’s Uniform Gang Enforcement Team.
Police have yet to name any of the people involved.
“This is an overview of multiple ongoing investigations. Charges have not been laid in all instances,” Cpl. Vanessa Munn told Glacier Media.
Surrey RCMP proactive enforcement officer Insp. Ryan Element said the purpose of the initiative “is to drive home the message to gang members and their associates, that they are not welcome here.”
Supt. Alison Laurin, deputy operations support officer for the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of B.C., said the team collaborates with frontline gang enforcement officers provincewide.
“We have been able to seize potentially deadly drugs, weapons and firearms, and intervene to prevent acts of violence from impacting the Surrey community,” Laurin said.
The police work resulted in:
- 43 Controlled Drugs and Substances Act investigations;
- 14 people facing charges varying from breach, warrants, obstructions of peace officer, carrying a concealed weapon, unauthorized possession of a firearm, careless use of a firearm, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, possession for the purposes of trafficking, and personating a police officer;
- 28 vehicles were impounded/seized for various offences and four are in the process of being forfeited through the Civil Forfeiture Office;
- Approximately $25,000 in cash was seized;
- 26 firearms were seized;
- Five imitation firearms, several bear sprays, knives, Taser and ammunition were seized;
- 162 alleged outlaw motorcycle gang clubhouse checks;
- 226 curfew checks;
- 307 Inadmissible Patrons Program checks, and;
- 11 Inadmissible Patrons Program ejections.
