WOLLASTON — RCMP intercepted a suspicious delivery of alcohol to a northern community Monday, and have charged two men as a result.
“Illegal alcohol is a threat to public safety,” says Wollaston RCMP Sgt. Robert Gatenby. “Licensed institutions ensure that alcohol is sold responsibly with proper oversight. If these safeguards are ignored and unregulated alcohol makes its way into our communities, the health and safety of its consumers are at risk. Our officers seizing this alcohol prior to it reaching its final destination is a crucial step in preventing these dangers.”
On Oct. 13, Wollaston Lake RCMP, suspecting that alcohol was about to be delivered to Hatchet Lake First Nation by boat, they deployed a drone and observed two boats dock in the community. Police say the occupants unloaded a number of bags and placed them in a bushy area on the beach, then left.
Wollaston RCMP officers seized the bags that were placed on the beach. The bags contained 44 bottles of hard liquor, 42 cans of beer, and approximately 40 cans/bottles of coolers.
Further investigation resulted in two men from Hatchet Lake First Nation being charged with sell or offering to sell, display, or keep beverage alcohol under Section 138 of the Alcohol and Gaming Regulation Act. They are scheduled to appear in court in Wollaston Lake on Nov. 12,
Wollaston Lake RCMP are still investigating.
