The exterior of the Manitoba Legislature is seen in Winnipeg, Wednesday, Nov. 6, 2024. (THE CANADIAN PRESS/John Woods)
The Manitoba government has launched a task force aimed at cracking down on organized crime and the trafficking of methamphetamine, fentanyl, cocaine and other illicit drugs.
Justice Minister Matt Wiebe said the Manitoba Organized Crime and Drug Trafficking Task Force will strengthen coordination among law enforcement agencies and focus on disrupting drug supply chains across the province.
The task force will include senior leadership from Manitoba Justice, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police, the Canada Border Services Agency, the Winnipeg Police Service, the Brandon Police Service, the Manitoba First Nations Police Service and police services in Altona, Winkler and Morden, as well as the Manitoba Criminal Intelligence Centre.
“This task force will provide law enforcement in Manitoba access to the best minds and practices in Canada when it comes to fighting back against drug trafficking and organized crime,” said Wiebe.
Kevin Brosseau, Canada’s fentanyl czar, will serve as an advisor to the group. The task force will report to the justice minister and provide advice on enforcement priorities, improve information-sharing and support joint operations. It will also explore additional tools, such as unexplained wealth orders, to disrupt criminal organizations.
Watch Wednesday’s news conference:
