Police raids on two residences in Burnaby and Maple Ridge turned up fentanyl, cocaine, cash and a fully operational semi-automatic rifle this week.
After a six-month investigation into a drug trafficking network selling fentanyl and cocaine, Burnaby RCMP’s drug section executed two search warrants on Oct. 30 in Burnaby and Maple Ridge, according to a police press release.
Officers seized several ounces of suspected cocaine and fentanyl, $20,000 cash, numerous replica handguns and the assault rifle.
Three individuals were arrested.
They now face a number of charges, including trafficking, possession for the purpose of trafficking and various weapons charges.
“The public safety risks associated to this type of criminal activity cannot be overstated,” Cpl. Daniela Panesar said in the release. “The seizure of these firearms has significantly increased the safety of the public and all law enforcement that work tirelessly to disrupt the illegal drug trade and stem the associated violence."
Panesar said it was particularly worrisome how authentic the replica handguns appeared even to the investigators.
