Police have confirmed last week’s raid on a home on Horse Lake First Nation has led to charges against a resident. As previously reported by MyGrandePrairieNow.com, officers executed a search warrant at Lot 54 on August 18th.
Beaverlodge RCMP says it seized 426 grams of what’s suspected to be cocaine as well as cutting agents, 42.5 grams of what’s suspected to be powdered fentanyl, 42 illicit prescription pills, 16 fentanyl tablets, as well as scales, packaging materials, and a score sheet. Also in the haul were an undisclosed number of handguns, including one that was loaded, crossbows, rifles, ammunition, brass knuckles, a throwing star, and other bladed weapons, along with cell phones and a body armour carrier.
47-year-old Linda Wanihadie is facing 16 offences, including two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance, two counts of unsafe storage of firearms, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, possession of a firearm with a tampered serial number, three counts of possession of a firearm or prohibited weapon knowing its possession is unauthorized, and four counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm, prohibited weapon, or restricted weapon. She remains in custody with a court date in Grande Prairie set for August 29th.
The RCMP’s Enhanced Unit says it became aware of suspected drug trafficking on the First Nation in September 2021, and the search warrant was the result of significant and continuous investigative efforts. Speaking to MyGrandePrairieNow.com on the scene, members said the home had been considered a problem for years and it’s hoped this action sends a message that criminal activity won’t be tolerated in their community.