Members of ALERT seized an estimated $20,000 in methamphetamine, opioid and illicit pills, and have charged two brothers after searching an Uplands home.--SUBMITTED PHOTO
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ALERT has charged and arrested two brothers – Ethan, 21, and Carter Oster, 24 – following a search of a home in the Uplands neighbourhood that led to the seizure of more than 600 methamphetamine, opioid and other illicit pills.
The investigation that began in May by using an intelligence-led response to community concerns related to drug trafficking and overdoses, also seized a number of weapons, including a replica handgun.
In total investigators seized 376 methamphetamine pills, 54 opioid pills and 221 various illicit prescription pills, as well as 3,270 grams of a suspected buffing agent.
More than $4,000 cash as well as 13 grams of cocaine and 18 tabs of LSD were also seized. Police estimate the total street value at $20,000.
“Our investigation suggests these two suspects were actively trafficking drugs throughout the city of Medicine Hat,” said Sgt. Curt Nieman with ALERT Medicine Hat. “Opioids and organized crime go hand-in-hand and irrevocably harm our communities.”
Both Oster brothers have been released from custody to await their next court appearance.
Residents who suspect drug activity can contact the Medicine Hat Police Service by calling 403-529-8481. Tips can also be submitted online (in anonymity if preferred) at mhps.ca.
