Room service: Police bust drug ring based in hotel room

RCMP have arrested a suspect who was allegedly selling drugs out of a Kelowna hotel room.

RCMP began an investigation into a drug trafficking operation occurring at a hotel in the 1500-block of Highway 33 in Kelowna on Nov. 21, 2021.

“Throughout the investigation, officers learned the suspect was trafficking drugs out of his hotel room. The suspect was operating a drive-thru of sorts where in some instances, customers would drive up to the room, remain in their vehicle, and the suspect would sell them drugs through their car window,” said Cpl Tammy Lobb.

Officers executed a search warrant on the hotel room on Dec. 31, and seized 2.5 ounces of methamphetamine, 2 ounces of fentanyl, 1.5 ounces of crack cocaine, and $4,100 in cash. A loaded handgun was also found during the search.

“The amount of fentanyl seized during this investigation equates to over 500 lethal doses,” said Sgt. Desmond Kiehlbauch of the Kelowna RCMP Drugs and Organized Crime Section. “Our officers have prevented a significant quantity of dangerous and highly-addictive drugs from getting to our streets.”

The suspect, a 45-year-old man, was arrested on scene without incident. Charges of drug trafficking and use of a restricted weapon are being recommended to the Public Prosecution Service of Canada.