VPD bust alleged drug operation that used condos as stash houses and taxis for deliveries

Vancouver police say they’ve taken millions of dollars worth of drugs off the streets in one of its biggest busts in recent memory.

Police said they seized an estimated $4-million worth of drugs and $320,000 in cash following an investigation into two “stash houses” in the city’s downtown core.

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Investigators seized about 13 kilograms of fentanyl, 11 kilograms of crystal meth, eight kilograms of benzodiazepine, and five kilograms of cocaine. Police also seized a hydraulic press, $320,000 in cash, and a firearm from units at two condo buildings.

“I always like to highlight that for the public and for condo owners,” VPD Supt. Lisa Byrne said, “when we have this type of operation in a condo building, you can get contamination in your pipes, hallways, et cetera.”

Police suspect the illicit operation used a unique delivery system.

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“These drugs were being packaged and taken via taxi to various locations throughout the city in the Lower Mainland for resale,” Byrne said.

A 52-year-old Burnaby man and a 21-year-old man from Vancouver were arrested but released pending further investigation.

Former VPD superintendent Kash Heed said he hopes the arrest serves as a deterrent for others.

“The great work by the police in interdicting this supply is fantastic,” he said. “But those individuals that are responsible need to be held to account.”

— With files from Emad Agahi