On July 18, 2024, Inuvik RCMP began a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act investigation into two apartments believed to be involved in drug trafficking. Officers obtained the grounds to apply for search warrants on both units, which were granted.
On July 21, 2024, Inuvik RCMP executed the search warrants on both apartments. Five people were arrested. Officers seized approximately 70 grams of suspected crack-cocaine and over $76,000 in cash believed to be the proceeds of crime. 70 grams of illicit cannabis was also seized.
As a result of the investigation, all five arrested persons are facing charges.
38-year-old Jolene Andre of Inuvik, 43-year-old Willie Inglangasuk of Inuvik, 21-year-old Krystian Cogswell of British Columbia, 20-year-old Yousha Nayyar of Ontario have all been charged with:
- Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5000, contrary to section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
A 17-year-old Alberta male is facing the same charges however they cannot be named due to the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act.
All arrested persons appeared before a Justice of the Peace and were remanded into custody.
"The Inuvik RCMP will continue to focus on those individuals that come to our community to profit from the illicit sale of these harmful substances. This is also a reminder to those that allow criminal activities to occur in your residence, you will be held accountable under the law" states Staff Sergeant Jesse Aubin, Inuvik detachment commander.
Anyone who has information about this incident is asked to contact the Inuvik RCMP at 777-1111 or Crime Stoppers at http://www.p3tips.com. In the event of an emergency call, 911.