REGINA — Saskatchewan's municipal Crime Reduction Teams (CRTs) and Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT) seized 67 firearms, more than 23 kilograms of methamphetamine and nearly 2.5 kilograms of fentanyl from Saskatchewan communities in the last six months of 2024.
From July 1 to Dec. 31, 2024, officers also charged 89 people with a total of 475 criminal charges.
There are currently three municipal CRT and STRT teams operating out of Prince Albert, Regina and Saskatoon. CRTs are dedicated to targeting street gangs and prolific offenders while responding to urban and rural crime surges when needed. STRT investigates illegal weapons, drugs and human trafficking cases.
"Crime is more complex than ever, and we need to be able to respond to the changing needs of our community," Regina Police Service Chief Farooq Sheikh said.
"Collaborating with government and community partners allows us to respond more effectively. This ongoing funding is a great example of how working together we can keep our communities safe."
Between July and December 2024, municipal STRTs opened 19 human trafficking files and initiated 21 human trafficking interventions.
On Nov. 27, 2024, members of the Saskatoon Police CRT investigated a case of suspected drug trafficking, resulting in the seizure of:
- $69,000 CAD;
- approximately 16 kilograms of methamphetamine;
- 470 grams of powdered cocaine;
- 175 grams of carfentanyl;
- 4 litres of gamma-hydroxybutyrate;
- 16 grams of fentanyl; and
- assorted paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.
As a result of this investigation, 15 charges were laid related to the possession of controlled substances and the proceeds of crime over $5,000.
"The Saskatoon Police Service is appreciative of provincial funding and support that allows us to enhance our policing efforts, invest in critical resources, and ensure our officers have the tools they need to keep our neighbourhoods safe," Saskatoon Police Service Chief Cameron McBride said. "It is not just an investment in law enforcement - it is an investment in the safety and wellbeing of all of our communities."
On Oct. 24, 2024, during the execution of two search warrants, the Prince Albert Police Service CRT charged two individuals and seized over 1,200 grams of cocaine, more than $39,000 cash, over 1,300 grams of cutting agent, two firearms and other evidence related to drug trafficking.
"The provincially funded CRTs and STRTs continue to play a critical role in enhancing public safety across the province, including Prince Albert," Prince Albert Police Service Chief Patrick Nogier said.
"These specialized units provide the resources and flexibility needed for officers to focus on 21st century policing initiatives. In Prince Albert, their ongoing efforts have substantially contributed to reducing drug trafficking, removing illegal firearms and disrupting organized crime. This sustained impact reflects the dedication of the Ministry of Corrections, Policing and Public Safety in supporting proactive policing initiatives that protect our communities and promote long-term public safety."
