Cocaine, cash seized in Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray… ALERT has charged a suspected drug trafficker for selling cocaine in northern Alberta. Approximately $150,000 in drugs and cash was seized.

ALERT Fort McMurray’s organized crime team made the seizure on July 5, 2023 after searching two homes in Fort McMurray. Wood Buffalo RCMP helped with the arrest and search warrant executions at a home in Westview Heights, as well as at an apartment in the Lower Townsite.

ALERT seized the following items, alongside an imitation firearm:

• 1.6 kgs of cocaine;
• 4.9 kgs of a suspected cocaine buffing agent;
• 675 tablets of Percocet; and
• $5,850 of cash.

“The RCMP in Wood Buffalo are committed to protecting our community. This investigation directly supports action required in our policing priorities for this year. Illicit Drugs and the issues associated with them have been identified as an issue by the residents in Fort McMurray. Our partnership with ALERT is valuable and directly contributes to community safety,” said Supt. Mark Hancock, Wood Buffalo RCMP.

ALERT began the investigation in March 2023 after receiving intelligence regarding drug trafficking in the community. During the course of the investigation, police were able to identify several addresses, including one believed to be a stash location.

“People involved in drug trafficking are constantly finding creative or unique ways to be discreet when moving product. In this instance, our suspect was seen hiding cocaine in bushes near where he parked his vehicle. This creates a major risk to the community, including for children, pets and any wildlife that may find these illegal substances,” Staff Sgt. Mark Wait, ALERT Fort McMurray.

Hassan Kourani, 37-years old of Fort McMurray, is facing trafficking and possessions charges. He has been released and is scheduled for a court appearance on August 22, 2023.

Members of the public who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.

ALERT was established and is funded by the Alberta Government and is a compilation of the province’s most sophisticated law enforcement resources committed to tackling serious and organized crime.