In a significant crackdown on organised crime, Canadian authorities have arrested six individuals suspected of producing tens of thousands of counterfeit cannabis-laced edibles. According to the BC RCMP, “RCMP Federal Policing investigators in BC have dismantled a criminal operation on Vancouver Island and arrested six suspects who were believed to be involved in the distribution of illicit drugs, unregulated cannabis, and contraband tobacco. Federal Investigators also seized thousands of counterfeit cannabis-laced edibles, including chocolate bars, candies and chips with packaging resembling popular name-brand snacks.” 

The operation targeted specific locations, including Green Coast Dispensary in Port Alberni and Coastal Storm Dispensary in Lantzville.

Authorities uncovered a large-scale operation involving the production and distribution of illicit drugs and contraband tobacco. Among the items seized were over 120,000 cannabis edibles cleverly packaged to resemble popular brand-name chocolate bars and snacks. Police also confiscated over 3 kilograms of psilocybin mushrooms, 1,740 psilocybin capsules, cannabis resin, and a significant amount of cannabis bud, among other substances. Additional seizures included five vehicles, two ATM machines containing cash, and over $400,000 in cash, highlighting the substantial scale of the criminal enterprise.

Alarmingly, the edibles were produced in unsanitary and contaminated conditions, raising significant health concerns. CTV News reported, “Federal investigators have arrested six people and seized tens of thousands of illicit cannabis edibles disguised as popular brand-name candies after raiding a pair of unlicensed dispensaries in British Columbia.”  The RCMP warned that these counterfeit products, some claiming to be “100 times more potent than regulated cannabis products,” pose serious health risks due to potential cross-contamination with other substances.

This bust shows just how big the problem of fake cannabis products has become. It’s a reminder for everyone to stay cautious and make sure what they’re buying is safe.

Source: ABC News