Three people were arrested and charged as well as a kilogram of methamphetamine and a loaded gun were seized after an investigation in Brooks and Medicine Hat.

ALERT Medicine Hat’s organized crime team conducted a drug trafficking investigation on February 22 with the help of Medicine Hat Police Service and Brooks RCMP.

There were two traffic stops, which resulted in the arrests.

The value of the drug bust is estimated to be $32,000. Police seized 521 grams of methamphetamine, a loaded handgun, brass knuckles and $830 in cash, the proceeds of crime.

“This investigation is a significant step in disrupting and dismantling organized crime in our community,” said Staff Sgt. Cory Both, ALERT Medicine Hat. “Preventing these drugs and weapons from hitting the streets of Medicine Hat goes a long way toward keeping our residents safe.”

The handgun was a Glock .40-calibre with the serial number filed off. According to police, further ballistics testing and analysis will be completed to determine if the firearm was used in any other crimes.

Aron Horvath, 37, is facing 11 criminal charges, including: trafficking a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, and eight firearms-related offences.

James Benard, 26, is charged with trafficking a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, possession of a prohibited weapon, and three counts of breach of probation.

Devon Koehle,19, is charged with possession of a controlled substance, and breach of recognizance.