Police break up drug-trafficking ring called The Family that used vulnerable Calgarians as distributers

Police say they have broken up a drug-trafficking network known as The Family that used vulnerable Calgariansas distributors and are in the process of providing help to many of those caught up in the operation.

The ringincluded more than 500 people as either sellers or buyers, police said.

"Over the course of the last 18 months, more than 80 violent incidents are believed to be connected to The Family," said police in a news release Friday.

"The group is comprised of individuals with addictions and other vulnerabilities, who are primarily homeless and mostly reside in and around the downtown area."

Police say their investigation lasted six months and culminated in search warrants being served on two vehicles and four homes in Calgary.

As a result of those warrants, police say they seized:

• 1,006 grams of methamphetamine.
• 232 grams of fentanyl.
• 233 grams of crack cocaine.
• 282 grams of powder cocaine.
• 630 grams of GHB.
• $34,791 in cash.
• Drug trafficking paraphernalia such as scales.
• Weapons crossbows, knives and bear spray.

Police also arrested aman they say is the head of The Family, Lawrence Chukwka Orubor, 52, of Calgary. He has been charged with instructing drug trafficking and violent offences for a criminal organization, as well as other charges.

"Simultaneously with the execution of the search warrants, teams of officers and community partners deployed into the downtown core to seek out those who police believe were involved with The Family," police said in the release.

"Eleven people believed to be connected to the distribution of the drugs with outstanding warrants were taken into custody to deal with their current matters before the courts, before being connected with support services."

Police say they partnered with the Bear Clan Patrol, an Indigenous grassroots street patrol, to offer support and resources to more than 100 people.

• Watch the video below to find out more about the group that formed in Calgary in December 2019

"The Elbow River Healing Lodge, the Friendship Centre, the [Safe Communities Opportunity and Resource Centre] and Be The Change YYC, were engaged to offer immediate resources and support for the days to come," according to police.

Bear Clan Patrol opens Calgary chapter

5 years ago

Duration 2:14

Bear Clan Patrol, an Indigenous grassroots street patrol, opens a chapter in Calgary after a resurgence in Winnipeg. The volunteer-run group aims to keep Indigenous communities safe by picking up needles and connecting with vulnerable people.