Winnipeg Police Seize Candy-Shaped Fentanyl in West Broadway Raid
Winnipeg police have arrested two individuals and seized a significant amount of fentanyl, some of which was molded into candy-like shapes, in a recent raid in the West Broadway neighborhood. This seizure marks the largest fentanyl bust to date for the Drug Enforcement Unit and raises concerns about the drug's potential appeal to youth.
Details of the Fentanyl Seizure
On September 24th, officers initiated an investigation into drug trafficking. A traffic stop led to the seizure of 38 grams of fentanyl. Subsequently, a search warrant was executed at an apartment suite on Furby Street. Inside, police discovered an additional 134 grams of processed fentanyl, valued at approximately $53,600, along with five grams of unprocessed fentanyl, estimated to be worth $200,000. Police say the unprocessed fentanyl could yield approximately 5,000 street-level doses once diluted.
The recovered fentanyl was found pressed into colorful shapes resembling dinosaurs, stars, and butterflies. The police also seized a Taser with six cartridges, pepper spray, $235 in Canadian currency, rubber molds, scales, and drug packaging materials.
Danger of Candy-Shaped Fentanyl
Constable Pat Saydak of the Winnipeg Police Service warned about the dangers of fentanyl disguised as candy, emphasizing the lethal potential. "This could be very enticing to a lot of people, including potentially our youth," said Saydak. Just two micrograms of fentanyl, equivalent to two grains of salt, is considered a lethal dose.
"This stuff is really dangerous. It could be potentially very, very lethal to anybody that takes it or even comes into contact with it." - Constable Pat Saydak, Winnipeg Police Service
Police urge residents to contact the non-emergency line at 204-986-6222 if they encounter substances resembling candy or pressed tablets. In case of ingestion, immediate medical help should be sought by calling 911.
Arrests and Charges
A 39-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman were arrested and face multiple charges including drug trafficking, weapons, and firearms-related offences. Both have been released on undertakings and remain before the courts.
A Growing Trend
While this is the first instance of candy-shaped fentanyl being seized in Winnipeg, similar cases have been reported in other regions, including fentanyl-laced cookies, dinosaur-shaped tablets and gummies.
Marion Willis, executive director of St. Boniface Street Links, called candy-like fentanyl "horrifying," highlighting the danger it poses to children.
| Seized Item | Details | Estimated Value |
|---|---|---|
| Processed Fentanyl | 134 grams, molded into candy shapes (dinosaurs, stars, butterflies) | $53,600 |
| Unprocessed Fentanyl | 5 grams | $200,000 |
| Other Items | Taser, pepper spray, Canadian currency ($235), rubber molds, scales, drug packaging | N/A |
