May 31, 2017, the "G" Division Federal Investigations Unit wrapped up a short-term investigation with the execution of four search warrants. A downtown area apartment, a campsite at the Fred Henne Territorial Campground, and two vehicles were searched during the evening of May 31, 2017. The searches were conducted with the assistance of Northwest Territories RCMP Major Crimes Unit, Police Dog Services and Yellowknife RCMP.
Approximately 170 grams of cocaine, 445 grams of marihuana, $20,000 cash, and a shotgun were among the items seized.
Seven people were arrested; with one person being released without charges a short time later. The following six people were charged with possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, careless storage of a firearm, and possession of the proceeds of crime exceeding $5000.
Howard BEAUMONT (age 37) (From Edmonton / Yellowknife)
Brandon BAXANDALL (age 24) (From Edmonton / Yellowknife)
Jordan MINUTE (age 28) (From Edmonton)
Sechiah NORWEGIAN (age 24) (From Yellowknife)
Travis KING (age 20) (From Yellowknife)
Brandin DYER (age 24) (From Yellowknife)
All of the above males are currently in custody and will appear in court on June 5, 2017.
"We believe this group is part of a larger drug trafficking network based out of Edmonton, Alberta, and that they recently set up shop in Yellowknife, after a hiatus of several years. Upon hearing of their return to the community, we made this group an enforcement priority. Our intensive, two week investigation hopefully sent a clear message to them that the Northwest Territories, including Yellowknife, is not open for their business" said Sgt. Dean Riou of the "G" Division Federal Investigations Unit.