Alleged gang members charged in Northern Alberta
The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Teams (ALERT) says several alleged members of the Always Strive and Prosper (A$AP) gang have been charged.
ALERT says officers were deployed to the Wabasca-Desmarais area — roughly 300 km north of Edmonton — to help address gang concerns within the community.
On March 5, a vehicle stop was conducted, which reportedly led to police seizing a loaded sawed-off shotgun, cocaine, and fentanyl.
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At the time, two people aged 29 and 41-years-old, who are believed to be associated with the gang, were taken into custody and have since been charged with drug trafficking and firearms offences.
On March 6, police conducted another traffic stop, this time seizing roughly 100 grams of cocaine.
At the time, two 26-year-olds, who are believed to be associated with the gang, were taken into custody and have since been charged with possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking.
Police say a third individual who was also in the vehicle, was also charged with drug offences.
“This operation makes it evident that the amount of effort and co-operation put forth by our local RCMP officers and ALERT has netted outstanding results. Working together, sharing intelligence, and developing enforcement strategies have made our community safer by taking drugs and guns off the street,” said Sgt. Colin Thorne, Wabasca RCMP.
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Police say A$AP is a street gang that has spread across northern and central Alberta, and in some correctional institutions.
It is believed the gang is involved in drug trafficking, home invasions, robberies, stolen property, and are known to rely on violence.
Police say the gang often wears grey and white clothing, often stylized with the gang name or slogans to show allegiance to the gang and to intimidate others.
“A$AP isn’t shy about allowing their presence being known in the community, which is used as a tool for recruitment and intimidation. Meanwhile, their community is struggling with addiction issues that are perpetuated by gang activity,” said Insp. Angela Kemp, ALERT Edmonton.
