Two Alberta men were arrested in the early morning hours of July 7 are now facing multiple weapons- and drug-related charges in Whitehorse, YT.
Whitehorse RCMP responded to a call for services in the in the Porter Creek area at around 3:30am related to a suspicious person. The investigation lead to the arrest of two males and the seizure of two loaded handguns, as well as evidence consistent with drug trafficking.
Zuhair Al-Basry, age 24 of Edmonton, AB, and Robel Woubete, age 26 of Edmonton, AB, have both been charged with the following offences:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking of a controlled substance (cocaine), section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking of a controlled substance (fentanyl), section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking of a controlled substance (methamphetamine), section 5(2), Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- Two counts, unauthorized possession of a firearm in a motor vehicle, section 94(2) Criminal Code;
- Two counts, possession of a loaded firearm, section 95(2) Criminal Code;
- Possession of a prohibited weapon, section 92(3)(a), Criminal Code.
Both men were held for court and had a first court appearance on July 7, 2022. On July 8, 2022, Zuhair Al-Basry was released with conditions pending a future court appearance. Robel Woubete remains in custody.
As part of the investigation, police also seized drug paraphernalia and a significant amount of Canadian currency, supporting the allegations related to trafficking.
Inspector Lindsay Ellis, Detachment Commander at Whitehorse RCMP, notes the significant safety risk that this file presented to the responding officers.
"The first officer who attended this call demonstrated excellent quick thinking skills and concern for safety," says Insp. Ellis. "This seizure has great impact on safety and security in the community."
Whitehorse RCMP will continue working towards a safe and healthy Whitehorse by targeting the drug trade in the city. One of the policing priorities for the detachment will continue to be participation in crime prevention efforts, including firearm enforcement and harm reduction.
Investigators ask that anyone who may have information regarding this or similar occurrences to contact the Whitehorse RCMP at 867-667-5551. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers online at www.crimestoppersyukon.ca or via phone at 867-667-6715.