Photo Credit: PG RCMP
Crime

Two people arrested following RCMP investigation into Safe Supply prescriptions

Apr 8, 2024 | 12:59 PM

PRINCE GEORGE— Two people have been arrested after a multi-unit investigation into the diversion of Safer Supply Prescriptions.

The arrests occurred at a residence of the 3000-block of Nechako Drive. Investigators seized Safer Supply prescription drugs, suspected meth, fentanyl, small amount of cash, counterfeit cigarette, and additional drug trafficking paraphernalia.

“Police officers acted on tips received from the public as well as on information from other ongoing police investigations. Multiple days of investigation into the alleged trafficking of Safer Supply medication provided investigators with enough evidence to arrest two individuals who were seen allegedly exchanging illicit drugs for safer supply drugs. We have reached out to our partners in Health Care to share the information learned in these investigations,” states Inspector Darin Rappel, Investigative Services Officer for the Prince George RCMP.

The suspects were released without charges as the investigation continues. Both are known to police for similar offences.

In light of the investigation North Health issued the following statement:

“The misuse and diversion of prescription medications is an issue Northern Health takes very seriously.

Northern Health works closely with the Prince George RCMP in multiple areas related to Mental Health and Substance Use services, including the Car 60 program which sees a mental health nurse respond to 911 calls alongside RCMP officers. However, Northern Health has not played a role in identifying illicit or prescription drugs seized by police.

Most Prescribed Alternatives (PA) medications are prescribed to patients by physicians, under clinical guidance from the B.C. Centre for Substance Use. PA prescribers are part of the provincial evaluation and monitoring process. More information regarding access to PA in B.C. can be found here.

It should be noted that there is a high degree of mobility in the illegal trade in illicit and prescription drugs. If PA medications were seized in Prince George, it does not necessarily mean they originated in northern B.C. And, as the RCMP notes, there is no evidence to support a widespread diversion of safer supply drugs in the illicit market in B.C. or Canada.”

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Email: sam.bennison@pattisonmedia.com