MHPS seizes almost $600,000 worth of fentanyl in traffic stop

By MEDICINE HAT NEWS on January 31, 2023.

https://www.medicinehatnews.com@MedicineHatNews

Local police say they seized nearly three kilograms of fentanyl worth almost $600,000 during a traffic stop early Saturday morning, along with other drugs and three firearms.

A Medicine Hat Police Service press release called the drug haul the largest ever recorded in the city for fentanyl. A 52-year-old Edmonton man is in custody.

“While this person was not from our community, we recognize that due to our geographic location there can be large quantities of illicit drugs passing through the city,” said police inspector Brent Secondiak.

“This file highlights once again the value of patrol officers having the time and training to conduct proactive policing initiatives such as traffic stops.”

The search took place at about 3:15 a.m. on Jan. 28 near Red Deer Drive SW, after the lone driver was found to be potentially in breach of court ordered release conditions, stated the release.

According to police, found alongside 2,972 grams of fentanyl were about 84 grams of methamphetamine, two rifles, a semi-automatic shotgun and about $3,200 in cash. A photo of evidence also shows a bullet-proof vest.

The fentanyl, enough for about 6 million doses, would have an estimated street value of $594,000.

John Elford is in custody charged with drug trafficking, firearms offences and possessing the proceeds of crime. He is scheduled to appear in Medicine Hat Provincial Court on Tuesday.

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