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By Jordan Parker

Drugs & guns seized during ALERT investigation

Jan 11, 2018 | 8:42 AM

ALERT Grande Prairie has seized more than half a kilogram of cocaine, two guns and other drugs following a five-month investigation.

The joint investigation — also involving Fairview RCMP, Peace River RCMP and Grande Prairie RCMP — led to the January 5, 2018 seizure during a traffic stop and search of a home in Fairview.

“RCMP detachments and ALERT will continue to collaborate on investigations in efforts to reduce crime in our communities,” said RCMP Cpl. Chris Warren in a press release.

“A dynamic, provincially coordinated crime reduction program, supported by intelligence shared with our law enforcement and government partners, will reduce calls for service and decrease crime in our communities.”
    
One of the three arrested, Khristopher Ali, was previously arrested by ALERT in September 2017 in what was believed to be one of Grande Prairie’s largest drug seizures. ALERT alleges that the 29-year-old man resumed his drug trafficking activities once released on bail.

On January 5, Ali was arrested during a traffic stop and found to be in possession of 370 grams of cocaine. His latest charges include three counts of drug trafficking, possession for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, and two breaches of a recognizance.

It is believed two of the man’s associates were arrested during this bust.

Riley Salmond, 24, and Rebecca Zwick, 22, face a total of 27 charges relating to drugs, stolen property and firearms. A search warrant was executed at the pair’s Fairview home with various drugs, firearms and stolen property seized. 

The total value of the drugs seized is more than $68,000 and includes:

  • 590 grams of cocaine; 
  • 58 grams of methamphetamine; 
  • 261 grams of dried marijuana; 
  • 75 grams of marijuana edibles; 
  • 12 grams of psilocybin mushrooms; 
  • 88 unknown pills;
  • two firearms; 
  • various replica firearms and weapons; and
  • $2,480 cash proceeds of crime.

Ali is now in custody, and will next be in court January 17 in Grande Prairie. Salmond and Zwick were both released on bail and are due in court January 24th in Fairview.

Members of the public who suspect drug or gang activity in their community can call local police, or contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). Crime Stoppers is always anonymous.

by Jordan Parker