(ST. JOHN’S, NL), December 3, 2019 – The Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) Criminal Investigation Division (CID) is warning the public of the presence of fentanyl among the seizure connected to Operation Ragged.
In March of 2019, The RNC Criminal Investigation Division (CID) initiated Operation Ragged in response to public safety concerns related to the discharging of weapons and arson offences in our community. Following the collaborative approach of specialized units within the CID, conventional investigative techniques were deployed, and on September 18th, 2019, members of the CID and Operational Patrol Services executed six Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) searches of residences plus several vehicles on the Avalon.
Among the items seized were two kilograms of cocaine, and over 1000 non pharmaceutical-grade pills. Subsequent to the seizure, the investigators submitted the drugs for testing in order to identify the substances. Investigators have been informed that along with two kilograms of cocaine were 423 pills of fentanyl, 600 Percocet, 36 oxycodone, 380 grams of a cutting agent called phenacetin, as well as 10.3 grams of ketamine, also known of horse tranquilizer.
This information poses a significant safety concern for those who use, come in contact with, or may be near cocaine which could contain fentanyl, ketamine or any of the aforementioned substances. The ingestion of fentanyl and amounts of the other substances may cause serious injury or death.
The RNC CID request that anyone with any information connected to these substances contact the RNC at 729-8000 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477). You can now provide information anonymously on the NL Crime Stoppers Website at www.nlcrimestoppers.com.
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Cst. James C. Cadigan, #775
Media Relations Officer
Royal Newfoundland Constabulary
(709) 729-8658