The Saskatchewan Government has introduced their latest measures to combat illicit fentanyl and methamphetamine production, transportation, trafficking and street use within the province.
In a news release, the provincial government says these measures will provide tools to remove fentanyl and methamphetamine in communities along with prevention of street-level use to protect all residents.
Some of these measures includes creating penalties with fines up $1 million, allowance of government to seize property that was gained through illegal activities or used to commit crimes, including dangerous, drug-related items as street weapons The Safe Public Spaces (Street Weapons) Act to allow police to seize items and potentially lay charges under this act, and to install policies to cancel provincial licences people convicted of drug-related crimes including driver's licences, provincial firearms licences, hunting and fishing licences, and in some cases business and other municipal licenses and provincial benefits.
"These drugs have caused immense harm in our communities, leading to addiction, crime and loss of life," Justice Minister and Attorney General Tim McLeod said. "We are taking a firm stance to disrupt the flow of fentanyl and methamphetamine while also providing options for offenders to access the resources necessary for recovery.
“We all know that these illicit drugs are hurting our people,” Métis Nation-Saskatchewan President Glen McCallum said. “It is more important than ever to work together with all governments – federal, provincial, Métis and Frist Nations in coordination to deter illegal activity but also work with those wanting to start the recovery path. We want to support these people with programming and transitioning into recovery-based living. The Government of Saskatchewan has committed to meaningful engagement with Métis Nation-Saskatchewan on the details of and before the implementation of these changes.”
The announcement comes one day after the Regina Police Service announced five individuals, including two members of the University of Regina Rams football team were arrested and charged following searches in Regina, Frobisher and Alameda earlier this month, which led to the seizure of 7.5 kilograms of fentanyl, 476 grams of cocaine, 22 grams of methamphetamine and more than $150,000 in cash.