‘We’re one step behind the drug dealers’: Manitoba announces drug enforcement taskforce

A new drug enforcement taskforce is being called a first of its kind for Manitoba.

Provincial and law enforcement leaders say the taskforce will work to disrupt organized crime groups bringing drugs into the region that are devastating communities and lives.

“My message is if you’re going to do this type of behaviour, you’re going to end up in handcuffs,” said Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) Chief Gene Bowers.

“We’re one step behind the drug dealers and the gangs, so this is an opportunity to bring everyone to one table,” added Manitoba Minister of Justice Matt Wiebe.

The taskforce is made up of representatives from the WPS, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the RCMP, Manitoba First Nations Police, law enforcement across the province, and Kevin Brosseau, Canada’s fentanyl czar.

“Success depends on partnerships that are real, operational and durable,” Brosseau said.

Officials detailed how drugs move into Manitoba from all directions, with organized crime networks working together to supply drugs across the province.

The taskforce will share information and strategies to tackle trafficking of drugs like cocaine, fentanyl and specifically methamphetamine.

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Wednesday’s announcement “doesn’t go far enough,” according to a Manitoba father who lost his son to drug poisoning in 2023.

Harlan Fourre died when he consumed what he thought was ecstasy, but it was laced with fentanyl.

Now his father Joseph Fourre wants changes made to Canada’s criminal code that would hold drug providers criminally responsible for a person’s death.

“Harlan’s Law would give law enforcement that first rung on the ladder,” said Joseph Fourre, the founder of the Singing Red Bear Foundation. “If all of a sudden, I’m responsible for your death, I’m going to say: ‘Hold on. Wait a minute. I bought it from this guy.’ And then there’s that first rung to start tracking where these drugs are coming from.”

WPS Chief Bowers feels such legislation changes would make a difference in tackling the drug problem. Brosseau adds the taskforce will help ensure consequences and accountability for those who participate in the drug trade.

“It is through taskforces and operations like this where barriers get exposed,” Brosseau said.