Eskasoni RCMP Detachment has arrested five men after executing search warrants in Eskasoni and in Howie Centre.
On March 12, RCMP officers searched an illegal cannabis storefront on Shore Rd. in Eskasoni where they safely arrested two men, a 32-year-old and a 37-year-old, both of Eskasoni. Officers also searched a residence in Howie Centre where they arrested a 41-old-man, also from Eskasoni.
At the two properties, police seized a large quantity of illegal cannabis, psilocybin and unstamped tobacco. A number of other items including a rifle, ammunition, cash and a vehicle were also seized.
The three men are facing charges under the Cannabis Act related to the possession of cannabis for the purpose of distributing and selling. They're also facing charges under the Excise Act. The 41-year old is additionally charged with Unlawful Possession of a Firearm and Careless Use of Firearm.
As officers were searching the property on Shore Rd., a small group of protesters gathered roadside without incident. Then seven people from a nearby residence later attended and attempted to disrupt the scene.
As officers were leaving the storefront, a 32-year-old man from Eskasoni, who was wielding a large piece of wood, blocked their way and resisted arrest, resulting in an officer using their conducted energy weapon. The man has been charged with Possession of a Weapon for a Dangerous Purpose; Uttering Threats; and Obstructing/Resisting a Peace Officer. Another man, a 32-year-old from Eskasoni, attempted to intervene during that arrest, and was charged with Obstructing/Resisting a Peace Officer.
All five men were released on conditions and are scheduled to appear in Eskasoni Provincial Court on June 3.
The investigation, led by the Eskasoni RCMP's General Investigation Section, was assisted by Criminal Intelligence Services Nova Scotia, the Nova Scotia Integrated Proceeds of Crime team, the Inverness County District Street Crime Enforcement Unit, Northeast Traffic Services - Cape Breton, and Service Nova Scotia.
The RCMP reminds residents that the only legal way to purchase cannabis in the province is at licensed locations. Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.