Winnipeg police are receiving nearly $350,000 from the province for drug enforcement, and to protect officers and the community from the risks of illegal drugs.
The funding comes from the Criminal Property Forfeiture Fund and is the third such announcement this week on investments being made from the fund.
“Police officers require specialized tools, resources and training to help reduce the risks associated with their jobs, especially the dangers of drugs such as methamphetamine,” said Justice Minister Cliff Cullen.
“These strategic investments help ensure Winnipeg police can adapt and respond to the needs of the community, while also supporting officer safety.”
Police will receive more than $38,000 to replace four self-contained breathing apparatuses used by officers working in the clandestine lab unit, who respond in high-risk situations involving large quantities of methamphetamine, fentanyl and other illicit drugs.
Provincial funds will also purchase a hand-held narcotics and explosives detector, valued at approximately $22,000, to help officers immediately identify the presence of drugs and gunshot or explosive residue. Another $13,400 will be invested to provide specialized training to members of the WPS drug enforcement unit including sending:
• one officer to a 10-day course focused on investigative techniques on topics such as confidential informants, criminal organizations and clandestine labs;
• two officers who may be called to testify as expert witnesses to a five-day course focused on court testimony, case law and other matters; and
• two members to a five-day course to build expertise related to covert operations, complex drug investigations and related legal considerations.
