Mahsi, Mr. Speaker. Mr. Speaker, making residents and communities safe is a priority of this Assembly. The NWT RCMP seized nearly 5 kilograms of cocaine and over $360,000 in cash this month. This was the largest drug and money seizure in the Northwest Territories' history. The RCMP estimates the street value of these drugs is almost a million dollars. The three individuals they arrested in Yellowknife are from outside the territory but have ties to the community.
The RCMP are doing important work, but drugs are still making their way into the communities. According to data from the Controlled Drugs and Substance Act investigations, the number of criminal charges laid annually in the territory has doubled since 2020. That's a crime, Mr. Speaker. Last year, the RCMP reported that they seized 1.9 kilograms of cocaine and a semiautomatic handgun in a single search.
Mr. Speaker, these suppliers are criminals who prey on vulnerable people. I have heard reports of drug charges and seizures in Fort Providence where four people from outside the territory were illegally occupying a cabin to allegedly sell crack to the community. Media has reported instances where Deh Cho residents have been coerced into these operations.
Mr. Speaker, we know in order for our communities to combat the drug issues in our community, we have to work together and find solutions from the communities. I will have questions for the Minister of Justice at the appropriate time. Masi, Mr. Speaker.
Thank you, Member from the Deh Cho. Members' statements. Member from Tu Nedhe-Wiliideh.
