RCMP release:
Kings District RCMP executed new search warrants at two illegal cannabis storefronts. Both locations were the subjects of previous warrants executed in July 2024.
On July 31, officers attended three locations and seized hundreds of small quantity packages of illegal cannabis, tobacco, and vape products, as well as a quantity of psilocybin (magic mushrooms). A 33-year-old Kentville man was arrested in relation to two of these locations. He is facing charges under the Cannabis Act, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and the Tobacco Act and was released on conditions pending future court appearances.
Despite the earlier arrests and charges, investigators learned that these two retail locations, on Hwy. 12 in Welton Landing and on Commercial St. in New Minas, resumed operations shortly after the man was released.
On August 26, Kings District RCMP attended both of these locations and confirmed that Cannabis Act violations were again occurring. Several staff members were arrested and officers executed new search warrants, leading to further seizures of illicit cannabis, tobacco, and psilocybin. Officers also seized a trailer and pickup truck.
The staff members arrested on August 26 were released pending future court appearances on conditions intended to prevent continuing involvement in illegal cannabis and tobacco sales. The investigation continues and more arrests are anticipated.
On both July 31 and August 26, police were required to use a rented cube van to transport the items seized to secure evidence storage. The warrant executions were conducted by Kings District general duty officers as well as officers from the General Investigative Section, Street Crime Enforcement Unit, and Kentville Police Services.
The Nova Scotia 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.