Toronto Men Charged Following Joint Investigation in Fort McMurray

Fort McMurray…Three Toronto men have been arrested after cocaine and a loaded handgun were seized. The arrests come following a joint investigation between Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) and RCMP Wood Buffalo.

ALERT’s Wood Buffalo team made the arrest October 8, as part of an on-going effort to address the Fort McMurray drug trade and its associated violence.

“Getting a handgun like this off the streets is a win for community safety, and Wood Buffalo RCMP is pleased to partner with ALERT to create a safer Fort McMurray,” said Supt. Rob McCloy, Wood Buffalo RCMP.

The three alleged drug dealers were arrested while attempting to flee their Beacon Hill neighbourhood home when a search warrant was being conducted. ALERT seized 18.5 grams of crack cocaine, a loaded handgun, $2,300 in cash proceeds of crime, and other evidence consistent with drug trafficking.

The handgun was previously reported stolen out of Fort McMurray and was equipped with a prohibited magazine. A forensic analysis and ballistics report of the firearm is underway to determine if the gun was used in any other crimes.

A total of 55 criminal charges have been laid against Mohamud Islow, 27, Abdirahman Islow, 25, and Yusuf Yusuf, 22. The charges relate to drug trafficking, possession of stolen property, firearms and weapons, and numerous breach offences stemming from previous arrests in Saskatchewan and Toronto.

The three were held in custody and are awaiting a court appearance scheduled for October 27.

Anyone with information concerning drug or gang activity in Fort McMurray is encouraged to contact the dedicated tipline at 780-788-GANG.