©2023 Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT). All Rights Reserved.
Edmonton… More than $200,000 in cash, vehicles, and jewelry was seized as the result of a six-month drug trafficking investigation. ALERT also seized cocaine, fentanyl, and three firearms after searching six Edmonton homes.
ALERT Edmonton’s organized crime team began their investigation in September 2022. Multiple suspects and various homes and apartment units across the city were identified and searched.
“Our investigation grew quickly as police discovered just how sophisticated this operation was. This drug trafficking group was selling large quantities of cocaine and had a significant cash flow,” said Staff Sgt. Rich Dejong, ALERT Edmonton.
On February 21, 2023 six search warrants were executed on addresses across Edmonton with assistance from the Edmonton Police Service and RCMP.
ALERT seized approximately $450, 000 worth of drugs, including:
As part of the investigation, police also seized numerous assets including;
“When police seize proceeds of crime, specific entities like cash and vehicles, we help to break the cycle that is organized crime. It’s important that we include these items under civil forfeiture so they cannot continue to be used to commit any other crimes,” Dejong added.
The investigation remains ongoing as investigators prepare reports and disclosure for Crown Counsel.
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.
The work we do is about our communities, and that’s why we recognize that residents can be instrumental in tackling serious crime. If you or someone you know has been the victim of a crime, or you suspect criminal activity, please reach out. Your information will remain strictly confidential.
Thank you for helping to make Alberta safer by being actively involved and reporting suspicious activity.