By NanaimoNewsNOW Staff

Nanaimo RCMP arrest 5 locals in ‘significant’ drug and weapons bust

Jun 1, 2017 | 2:33 PM

NANAIMO — RCMP say they’ve managed to cause a disruption in Nanaimo’s illegal drug trade.

According to Cst. Gary O’Brien, five people from Nanaimo were arrested on May 25 at a motel in central Nanaimo as well as a residence on Beavercreek Cres. They allegedly recovered 2 oz. of suspected opioids, 3 oz. of cocaine, 8 oz. of meth as well as weapons including a crossbow, taser and knives. They also seized $24,000 cash.

“These people were very active in the distribution of drugs in our community. This was a very significant seizure and will cause a disruption,” O’Brien said.

Curtis Houle, 32, Michael Byrne, 39, Bailey Martin, 23, Kelsie Boutilier, 18 and Gerald Johnson, 32, have been charged with possession for the purpose of trafficking.

Johnson was also charged with possessing a prohibited device, which was the taser.

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O’Brien said finding so many weapons, which were out in the open for police to recover, is a stark reminder to residents how dangerous the drug trade can be.

“People involved in the drug trade are also involved in a lot of violence and intimidation. They cause fear in the community. These (five) are extremely violent and people have to be aware if they get involved in this vicious cycle there’s considerable harm that can be caused to them.”

O’Brien said the public should expect similarly large busts in the future.

“We have to get a handle on this. Removing these people from the streets is significant and there’s others to be dealt with as well.”

Both Houle and Byrne are still in police custody. The other three were released on conditions and will appear in court later this month.

Island-news@jpbg.ca

On Twitter: @nanaimonewsnow