The BC RCMP is clarifying that there is “no evidence” to suggest a “widespread diversion” of safer supply drugs into the illicit market after a recent drug trafficking case.
Last week, Mounties shared information on a sizeable drug seizure that took place on Vancouver Island in February that included a significant amount of Dilaudid pills, suspected to have been diverted from safe supply prescriptions.
In addition to over 3500 Dilaudid pills, investigators also seized over one kilogram of cocaine, over one kilogram of methamphetamine and over two kilograms of fentanyl—some of which has been moulded into gummy bear and dinosaur shapes.
“Extensive documentation found on scene suggested a well-organized drug trafficking operation was being run from the residence,” police said last week.
A Campbell River woman in her 50s was arrested on scene and released with a court date in May. Drug trafficking charges are being recommended against the woman, as well as three others.
Today, the BC RCMP released a follow up statement saying that the seizure of prescription drugs such as opioids is something officers “deal with on many occasions.”
“However, the presence of confirmed safer supply prescriptions are in the minority of drug seizures,” the RCMP added.
According to the RCMP, there have been recent investigations that resulted in “notable” quantities being seized, but there is nothing to suggest a widespread issue in BC or Canada.
“We’ve increased awareness to our police officers in order to better identify cases where safer supply drugs may be present within their investigations,” they added.
Work is being done to test the seized drugs to confirm and source them.
