Two Men Wanted in Connection to a CFSEU-BC North District Drug Trafficking Operation
Two (2) men are wanted in connection to a Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia (CFSEU-BC) led drug trafficking investigation and police are asking for the public’s assistance to locate these two individuals.
In January 2023, CFSEU-BC’s North District Team began a drug investigation, working collaboratively with Northern Rockies RCMP. The investigation progressed and led investigators to individuals believed to be involved in a drug trafficking operation based in northern British Columbia.
The investigation resulted in the execution of search warrants on two (2) residences in the Fort Nelson area. The following items were seized:
• 1.5 kg cocaine
• 860 g of methamphetamine
• 2 lbs of marihuana
• $1460 CDN currency
• 9 firearms and ammunition
• Various drug trafficking items and paraphernalia; score sheets, packaging material and scales.
On October 3, 2024, The Public Prosecution Service of Canada (PPSC) approved several charges against two individuals;
• Brandon James Richter, a 33-year-old male from Fort Nelson; o Two (2) counts of trafficking a controlled substance, contrary to section 5(1) of the Controlled Drug and substance Act (CDSA),
- Two (2) counts of trafficking a controlled substance, contrary to section 5(1) of the Controlled Drug and substance Act (CDSA),
- Two (2) counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) CDSA,
- Two (2) counts of unsafe storage of a firearm, contrary to section 86(1) of the Criminal Code of Canada (CCC).
• Marty James Buchanan, a 36-year-old male from Fort Nelson
- Two (2) counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) CDSA,
- Two (2) counts of unsafe storage of a firearm, contrary to section 86(1) CCC.
Arrest warrants have been issued for these individuals. Police are seeking the assistance of the public in locating these two men. If you have any information regarding their whereabouts, please contact your local police.
“I commend the hard work by my officers and CFSEU-BC that led to the arrest and charges against these men. The collaboration between agencies is essential in removing toxic drugs from our community here in Fort Nelson,” says Cpl. Kyle Petre Officer in Charge of Northern Rockies RCMP. “We will continue our efforts to keep our community safe and protect the most vulnerable.”
“This investigation led by CFSEU-BC, and the subsequent arrests, have made an impact on public safety by disrupting the violent activity associated with the drug trade and organized crime,” says Sergeant Brenda Winpenny, Media Relations Officer for CFSEU-BC. “CFSEU-BC remains vigilant in our efforts to support and work collaboratively with our policing partners to target those who pose the greatest risk to public safety due to their involvement in gang-related activities. Police in British Columbia are unified in our resolve to suppress, disrupt, and prevent groups who show such wanton disregard for the well-being of our citizens.”
CFSEU-BC would like to thank and recognize the Northern Rockies RCMP for their assistance with this investigation.
Media Spokesperson: Sergeant Brenda Winpenny
Cell: 604-838-6800
Email: Brenda.Winpenny@cfseu.bc.ca
