The Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET), a joint force operation between the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Canada Border Services Agency and Calgary Police Service, has charged a man for importing cocaine and heroin into Canada.
As a result of the investigation by the IBET, 38 kilograms of cocaine and 30 kilograms of heroin which has a combined street value of approximately $7 million was seized.
On October 12, 42-year-old David Phanthikane, a resident of Edmonton, was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
Acting Superintendent Melanie Oncescu, from the Calgary Police Service CPS Criminal Operations and Intelligence Division said that the success of this operation is a testament to the strength of law enforcement working in partnership.
“Through excellent teamwork, we have been able to remove a substantial supply of drugs that were likely destined to target vulnerable addicted individuals. These are people that feed their supply through the crime that impacts our broader communities.”
Superintendent Sean Boser, OIC of Federal Policing, Calgary stated that the investigation spanned several months.
“This complex investigation is a great demonstration of the importance of collaboration between agencies. Investigators were able to prevent 68 kg of cocaine and heroin from impacting Alberta’s communities and potentially saving lives.”
Phanthikane is scheduled to appear in Edmonton Provincial Court on Thursday, November 24.
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