On September 29, members of BC Highway Patrol travelled to Powell River for a joint traffic enforcement operation, targeting impaired driving and other high risk driving offences. Over a three-day period (September 29 to October 1), BC Highway Patrol and Powell River RCMP members removed 16 impaired drivers from local roadways, according to a media release.
The team included a police service dog that is trained in drug detection. It was this specialized ability that led to a seizure of fentanyl, cocaine and cannabis and also resulted in a large seizure of cash and a vehicle.
In addition, two vehicles were taken off the road and ordered inspected for safety violations, 50 violation tickets were issued and there is an ongoing investigation into a stunting infraction.
"These numbers are concerning as these drivers pose a significant risk to public safety," stated sergeant Sandi Swanson. "The community can expect to see more joint operations like this to address road safety in our city."
