RCMP Federal Policing investigators have made a major discovery regarding illegal edibles on Vancouver Island.
Six suspects were arrested, and thousands of counterfeit cannabis-laced edibles were seized which resembled popular snack brands after search warrants were executed at five residences and two dispensaries in Nanaimo and Port Alberni.
The edibles also included counterfeit chocolate bars, chips and honey and many were labeled to be one hundred times more potent than other cannabis products.
Searches were conducted at Green Coast Dispensary in Port Alberni, and Coastal Storm Dispensary in Lantzville, and evidence was found at two modular trailers.
Chief Superintendent Stephen Lee of the Federal Policing Program said the trailers were highly unsanitary and contaminated.
“Given the highly contaminated and unsanitary conditions of the illicit drug production facility where these cannabis edibles were being produced, it is possible that the consumption of these products can lead to serious health risks.”
In addition to the illegal edibles, police also seized:
- Multiple different kinds of psilocybin products, including mushrooms and capsules
- 2.2 pounds of pressed cannabis resin
- Over 500 pounds of cannabis bud
- Over 19 pounds of shatter
- Over 5000 cannabis vape cartridges
- 5 vehicles
- 2 ATM’s containing cash
- 82,000 packs of cigarettes
- Over $400,000 in cash
- A shotgun
- Other paraphernalia
RCMP believe that the counterfeit cannabis edibles are likely cross contaminated with other drugs and substances which were present in the trailer they were found.
With Halloween just days away, RCMP is urging the public to use extreme caution if they come across the products in the coming days.
Numerous drug-offence related charges are being pursued RCMP said, and the investigation is ongoing.
