McLennan RCMP confirm that two of the most common and popular drugs currently in use within the region include marijuana and crack cocaine – a solid and extremely addictive smokable bi-product made from cocaine. Above: Cst. Pat Frenette of the McLennan RCMP.

Increased collaboration and cooperation between the public, media and McLennan RCMP is helping to effectively ‘weed’ out the key movers and shakers involved in this region’s drug trade. “We’re squeezing them (drug dealers) out one by one thanks in large part to assistance in the form of timely tips from the public,” says Cst. Pat Frenette of the McLennan detachment. “Through the acquisition of this valuable information we have managed to specifically identify a number of individuals directly involved in the illegal drug trade within this region.” His comments fall on the heels of a number of successful search and seizure operations by RCMP, the most recent of which resulted in a possession of marijuana charge against a McLennan man in early September after 35 grams of pot and a small amount of cash were seized. And other dealers are expected to be exposed in the coming weeks and months as residents and RCMP continue to work in unison in an effort to put the brakes on illegal drug-related activities within the region. “We’re receiving more and more helpful information each day in relation to the ongoing routines, operations and contacts of major drug dealers in the region,” Cst. Frenette says, adding that RCMP rely on the public to act as the eyes and ears in their communities whether it’s drugs or any other criminal activity. RCMP say the assistance, coupled with the recent crackdown on illegal drug activities, is sending a clear message to these individuals that drug use and trafficking (the sale of illegal drugs) will not be tolerated within our communities. And that message appears to be creating a general sense of unrest and tension among the bigger ‘fish’ directly responsible for fuelling the region’s drug trade. “These individuals are taking notice of what’s happening and definitely feel the increased heat as a result of our presence. We want them to know, in no uncertain terms, that it’s just a matter of time before RCMP come knocking on their door,” Cst. Frenette. “They should be nervous, very nervous knowing their days of selling illegal drugs are numbered.” The region’s intolerance towards the drug trade remains a primary focal point of municipalities throughout the area. One such example of this is in McLennan where town councilors successfully spearheaded the formation of an anti-drug community group in July of this year to combat drug activity and associated crime-related activities in the community. Two of the most common drugs currently in use within the region include marijuana and crack cocaine – a solid, smokable bi-product of cocaine. RCMP appreciate the support of the public in the war against drugs and encourage residents with information to come forward by contacting the detachment at 780-324-3086. You can also call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).