Three people were arrested and more than $100,000 in cash was seized as part of a major drug trafficking investigation on northern Vancouver Island, according to authorities. The RCMP investigation involved multiple searches of homes and vehicles in and around the community of Port McNeill, where police say one kilogram of suspected cocaine and “significant quantities” of other drugs, including ketamine, were seized. Officers uncovered two rifles and a shotgun in the searches, as well as multiple cellphones and more than 100 cartons of contraband tobacco products, according to a news release Thursday from the Port McNeill RCMP. The release said investigators are seeking the forfeiture of two vehicles involved in the investigation as suspected proceeds and instruments of crime. Despite announcing the arrests and seizures, the RCMP said it would not provide any further information about the investigation, which is ongoing with forensic analysis and charge assessments still pending. “This was a significant disruption to suspected drug trafficking activity in the North Island region,” said Sgt. Erin Stevenson of the Port McNeill RCMP in a statement. “The amount of cash, drugs, firearms, and contraband seized during this investigation demonstrates the serious nature of the criminal activity involved.” Anyone with information related to the case or other criminal activity in the area is asked to contact the Port McNeill RCMP.
