This investigation is part of a larger, months-long project which Strike Force initiated in July to target organized crime groups trafficking drugs in Victoria and Esquimalt. In October, Strike Force arrested a separate suspect associated to organized drug trafficking in the 0-block of Dallas Road. During the arrest officers seized one kilogram of 90 percent concentration fentanyl. Typically, samples of fentanyl are found to contain on average 10 percent fentanyl. In 2019 only one sample in Canada tested above 75 percent. In 2020, seven samples across the country have tested above 75 percent.As part of this project, Strike Force officers executed an additional search warrant on the afternoon of October 7th at a suite in a multi-unit residential building in the 700-block of Yates Street. Officers arrested the occupant of the suite for drug trafficking related offences and seized over $5,000 in cash, and quantities of cocaine and fentanyl with an estimated street value of approximately $55,000.In total, Strike Force officers will be recommending several drug trafficking-related charges against two men and a woman from Surrey, and two men and a woman from Vancouver.About Strike Force:Strike Force is a focused investigative unit in the Victoria Police Department. Strike Force officers use cutting-edge investigative techniques including clandestine surveillance, undercover operations and confidential information to identify, target and arrest some of the most dangerous offenders in Victoria and Esquimalt. Strike Force officers are focused on getting fentanyl and guns off our streets. Many Strike Force investigations are sparked by tips from people worried about guns and drugs like fentanyl.Strike Force relies on tips from the public. If you have information about drug trafficking or firearms in our community, you can call the Strike Force line directly at (250) 995-7260.-30-
