Two people - including a Burnaby man - have been charged following an investigation led by the New Westminster Police Department Street Crime Unit.
“An investigation was launched to target a drug trafficking organization working in New Westminster,” said a news release. “The investigation spanned several months and included assistance from the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, Lower Mainland Emergency Response Team, and the Vancouver Police.”
As a result of the investigation, arrests were made in Delta and Vancouver, with a search warrant being executed in Vancouver. The search resulted in a seizure of various drugs with an approximate street value of $414,210, $55,000 cash, $24,000 in high-end jewelry, and a vehicle, police said.
The drugs seized included a large quantity of fentanyl, carfentanil, and other drugs such as cocaine, methamphetamine, and U47700 which is a synthetic opioid far more potent than morphine.
“We continue to see increased opioid overdose deaths across the Lower Mainland,” stated Deputy Chief Constable Paul Hyland. “Our enforcement focus is on those who seek to profit from the illegal sale of fentanyl-laced drugs in our community, which are very high risk to those with substance abuse challenges.”
Two people have been charged in connection with the investigation, including 28-year-old Chang Jun Lee of Burnaby, who is facing eight counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Also charged is 41-year-old Karolina Stulec of New Westminster, who is facing three counts of trafficking in a controlled substance, plus six counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Both Chang Jun Lee and Karolina Stulec have been released from custody with conditions for an upcoming court appearance.
