In June 2023, Saskatchewan RCMP's Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT) began an investigation into illicit drug trafficking in Northern Saskatchewan communities including La Ronge, Stanley Mission and Prince Albert.
In August, officers gathered evidence during a targeted traffic stop conducted on Highway #2, north of Prince Albert, as well as during a search warrant executed at a residence on Shea Crescent in Saskatoon. Officers located and seized illicit drugs including crack cocaine and cocaine, cash, trafficking paraphernalia, a vehicle and electronic devices.
Investigation, which included digital analysis of the seized electronic devices, continued through the fall of 2023. Investigators then consulted with Crown prosecutors on appropriate charges.
As a result, on December 21, 2023, 60-year-old Randolph Letwiniuk from Saskatoon was charged with:
- one count, trafficking cocaine, Section 5(1), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- one count, trafficking hydromorphone, Section 5(1), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- one count, possession for the purpose of trafficking cocaine, Section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- one count, possession of ammunition contrary to order, Section 91(1), Criminal Code;
- one count, possession of ammunition while prohibited, Section 117.01(1), Criminal Code
Saskatchewan RCMP's Saskatchewan Enforcement Response Team (SERT) Analytical Section; La Ronge, Moose Jaw and North Battleford Crime Reduction Team; North Battleford Police Dog Services, Saskatoon RCMP, as well as Saskatoon Police Service assisted in this investigation.
"When combatting the supply of dangerous drugs in our communities, it's not enough to go after street-level dealers. We have to disrupt the supply chain," says S/Sgt. Kory Davidsen from SERT. "Over the past six months, Saskatchewan RCMP SERT, with assistance from other Saskatchewan RCMP units and Saskatoon Police Service, has diligently been investigating one of these supply chains and now, have laid charges. We believe this arrest has prevented dangerous illicit drugs from entering northern Saskatchewan communities. We're not stopping there. We'll continue until everyone gets the message: if you traffic drugs, you will be investigated, arrested and held responsible for your reckless actions."
The investigation continues.