**** RCMP Media Release
Southwest Nova District RCMP has charged 21 people with more than 50 offences after executing search warrants at illegal cannabis storefronts throughout the District
“Our teams, together with many partners, did an exceptional job of investigating and then coordinating enforcement across communities safely and with minimal disruption to residents,” said Supt. Jason Popik, District Policing Officer, Southwest Nova RCMP District, at a media availability today in New Minas. “Organized crime groups are among the suppliers of illicit cannabis and, as such, profit directly from the illegal sale of the product; they’re exploiting opportunities within our communities for their own benefit.”
The operation, dubbed Project Highfield, began in October 2024 and involved search warrants at 13 illegal storefronts in Kings, Lunenburg, Annapolis and Queens counties between February 4 and 13. Project Highfield was assisted by Kentville, Bridgewater, and Annapolis police services and involved multiple RCMP units. It resulted in the seizure of:
• 141.4 kgs of dried cannabis
• 189.29 kgs of cannabis edibles
• 46 kgs of liquid cannabis
• 23.4 kgs of hashish
• 9.5 kgs of psilocybin (magic mushrooms)
• 958 cartons of unstamped tobacco
• 18 firearms (17 long guns and a handgun)
• $16, 143.14 in cash
• 3 ATMs
• 7 shed-like structures
Twenty-one people are facing 52 charges under the Cannabis Act, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, the Excise Act and the Criminal Code, including:
• Possession of Cannabis for the Purpose of Selling
• Unauthorized Sale of Cannabis
• Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (psilocybin)
• Possession of Unstamped Tobacco
• Possession of Unstamped Cannabis
• Careless Use of a Firearm
• Possession of Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition
Project Highfield has been assisted by the Service Nova Scotia Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division, and the Public Prosecution Service of Canada.
The individuals charged will begin their court appearances in June. The investigation is ongoing and further arrests and charges are expected.
Nova Scotians are encouraged to contact their nearest RCMP detachment or local police to report crime, including the illegal sale of drugs, in their communities. Anonymous tips can be made by calling Nova Scotia Crime Stoppers, toll-free, at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), submitting a secure web tip at www.crimestoppers.ns.ca, or using the P3 Tips app.
