Police operations yield drugs, cash and watches

Two police operations by the Calgary Police Service Strategic Enforcement Unit have resulted in several charges along with the seizure of drugs, cash and expensive watches.

Woman charged with drug trafficking

One operation resulted in drug-related charges following an investigation that began in May 2017, when police uncovered that a woman was allegedly linked to drug trafficking.

On Wednesday, June 6, 2017, investigators observed the woman driving around the city carrying out activities consistent with drug trafficking and conducted a traffic stop on her vehicle.

Police located a brown paper bag in the vehicle containing 956 grams of powder cocaine worth approximately $95,600, and six individual ounces of crack cocaine, weighing 156.3 grams, worth approximately $15,630. Police also found $625 in cash and three Rolex watches worth approximately $30,000.

Hanh Tuyet TRUONG, 48, of Calgary, has been charged with one count of drug trafficking; one count of possession of the proceeds of crime; and two counts of possession of drugs for the purposes of trafficking. TRUONG will next appear in court on Wednesday, June 28, 2017.

Two charged with drug trafficking

A second unrelated police operation also focused on individuals believed to be involved with drug trafficking resulted in additional drug-related charges.

On Wednesday, June 7, 2017, police conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle in the 2600 block of 68 Street N.E. The occupants of the vehicle were taken into custody and the vehicle searched. Police recovered $21,000 in cash as well as a small amount of cocaine from the vehicle.

The operation also led to search warrants at two northeast Calgary residences. Police seized 56.9 grams of crack cocaine and other items used drug trafficking from a home located in the 100 block of Falton Rise N.E. Police also searched a home in the 900 block of Rundlecairn Way N.E., and seized cocaine processing and packaging equipment.

Yoas Abraham GEZAW, 33, and Sarah KEBEDE DEGU, 43, both of Calgary, have been charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking. GEZAW was also charged with possession of the proceeds of crime, possession of a controlled substance, and two counts of failing to comply with a recognizance order.

GEZAW is next scheduled to appear in court on Friday, June 23, 2017, and KEBEDE DEGU is scheduled to appear in court on Wednesday, July 5, 2017.

The strategic enforcement of drug and weapons trafficking is a priority for the Calgary Police Service. Illegal drug activity is a danger to the community and a root cause of social disorder, violent crime and property crime. Vehicle thefts, break and enters and robberies are often committed by those trying to fuel addiction. The CPS aims to address root causes of crime through crime reduction strategies and community partnerships to ensure Calgary remains a safe place to live.