Burnaby RCMP have shut down an illegal drug dispensary after it allegedly sold cannabis and other drugs to young people.
A concerned community member contacted the detachment in mid-February, after a teenager allegedly bought cannabis at the business, which was located near Hastings Street and Beta Avenue, according to a police news release.
“The store had exterior signage indicating it was a tattoo studio, but was operating without a business license and was set up as a drug dispensary inside,” stated the release.
After an investigation, Burnaby RCMP with help from city bylaw officers executed a search warrant at the location on Feb. 18 and seized cannabis products, magic mushrooms (psilocybin) and suspected MDMA, according to police.
The dispensary has now been shut down.
“It is of particular concern to our officers and to the community that an underage teenager was allegedly able to purchase drugs from this location,” Burnaby RCMP spokesperson Cpl. Mike Kalanj said in the release. “The purchase and use of illegal and unregulated drugs creates serious health and safety risks. This is particularly worrisome when youth are involved.”
While cannabis is legal to purchase and consume in Canada, Burnaby RCMP warned there are strict regulations in place, including where products can be purchased.
People must also be 19 years or older to buy, use or possess non-medical cannabis in B.C.
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