RCMP continues inspections at illegal cannabis storefronts
The Nova Scotia RCMP has issued two summary offence tickets (SOTs) following inspections at two illegal cannabis storefronts last week.
On March 12 and 13, under the authority of the provincial Cannabis Control Act, RCMP officers conducted inspections at illegal cannabis storefronts in the following areas:
- the 9100 block of Hwy. 105 in Whycocomagh
- the 4200 block of Shore Rd. in Eskasoni
Inspections resulted in the seizure of a variety of cannabis products. Officers are continuing to document and inventory the seized items.
In Whycocomagh, hash was also located, along with hundreds of cannabis items that had been packaged to resemble ordinary items like candy, potato chips, cookies, chocolate bars, and cereal; this is an illegal practice that increases the chance of accidental consumption by children.
A person present at each of the two storefronts was charged under the Cannabis Control Act for operating a store that sells cannabis; the amounts of the SOTs will be determined in court. The individuals were also issued appearance notices for offences under the Nova Scotia Revenue Act involving illegal tobacco.
The investigations, which were assisted by the Department of Service Nova Scotia’s Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division, remain ongoing.
On March 13, RCMP officers attended six storefronts and observed that they were closed for business. These locations include:
- the 0-100 block of Old St. Peters Rd. in Potlotek
- the 0-100 block of Old Band Office Rd. in Potlotek
- the 12000 block of Hwy. 4 in Potlotek
- the 12100 block of Hwy. 4 in Potlotek
- the 6500 block of Pictou Landing Rd. in Pictou Landing
- the 100 block of Saqamaw Rd. in Paqtnek
“We’re committed to reducing the impact of illegal cannabis storefronts in our communities,” says Supt. Jason Popik of the Nova Scotia RCMP. “We're now seeing more storefronts that are closed as we continue our inspection efforts. This is an early indication that police efforts to have these storefronts cease operations is working."
The Nova Scotia RCMP continues to enforce cannabis laws with a focus on public safety and the aim to have illegal cannabis storefronts cease operations; their products are often sourced from organized crime groups, are unregulated, and may pose health risks.
Anyone with information about illegal drug activity in their community is encouraged to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers.
-Lunenburg District RCMP threats investigation leads to arrest for assault and search warrant execution
Lunenburg District RCMP arrested two people and executed a search warrant as part of an investigation into threats.
On March 14, officers began an investigation into reported threats. During the investigation, they learned a woman in Hebbville was unlawfully in possession of a firearm.
On March 16, officers from Lunenburg District RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence on Catidian Pl. with support from the Nova Scotia RCMP Critical Incident Program, including the Emergency Response Team.
Officers arrested two people and seized a replica firearm from inside the home.
A 21-year-old Hebbville woman will face charges related to assault and threats. She was released by police on conditions pending a future court appearance scheduled for June 17 at Bridgewater Provincial Court.
A second person was released without charges.
The investigation is ongoing.
Anyone with information about criminal activity in their community is encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police. To remain anonymous, call Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submit a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or use the P3 Tips app.
