ON January 18 at approximately 6:30 p.m., members of the Gang Suppression Unit observed a suspicious vehicle near the intersection of 8th Avenue and 10th Street. An officer initiated a traffic stop and spoke to the driver.

The driver, who was prohibited from driving, was arrested and a search of the vehicle resulted in seizure of $111,000 cash and vacuum-sealed packages of suspected fentanyl, cocaine, and crystal meth with an estimated street value of $100,000. The passenger was also subsequently arrested.

Officers continue working on this investigation. Charges related to trafficking a controlled substance are being recommended.

“Our Gang Suppression Unit has been doing some fantastic work,” said Sgt. Andrew Leaver. “If you’re involved in organized crime or trafficking drugs in our city, you’ll be noticed.”

The enforcement focus for the New Westminster specialty units is on those who seek to profit from the illegal sale of fentanyl-laced drugs in the community, which are very high risk to those with substance abuse challenges, said police.

Anyone with information on drug activity in their neighbourhood is asked to contact the New Westminster Police at 604-525-5411.