Vancouver Police Seize Over $79K in Drugs, Cash in 'Project Bingo' Investigation
Vancouver police seized over $79,000 in illicit drugs, cash, and weapons during a six-month investigation called "Project Bingo" targeting drug trafficking on the Downtown Eastside. The search uncovered fentanyl, cocaine, methamphetamine, dilaudid pills, illegal cigarettes, and a large cache of weapons. A 61-year-old man was arrested and released pending further investigation.
The Vancouver Police Department announced a seizure of more than $79,000 in illicit drugs and cash during a six-month investigation into drug trafficking on the Downtown Eastside. The operation, known as "Project Bingo," began in December after patrol officers observed suspicious activity at a single-room occupancy hotel near East Hastings and Princess Avenue. After six months of evidence gathering, officers executed a search warrant in May and uncovered a significant quantity of narcotics and weapons.
Inside the hotel room, police found 287 grams of fentanyl, 107 grams of cocaine, 549 grams of crystal methamphetamine, and 303 dilaudid pills. The drugs have a combined street value of $65,922. Officers also seized 86 cartons of illegal cigarettes valued at $3,300 and $10,338 in cash. The total value of the seizure is $79,560.90.
In addition to the drugs and cash, investigators recovered a handgun, ammunition, body armour, a prohibited crossbow, swords, and several other weapons. A 61-year-old man from Vancouver was arrested, interviewed, and released pending further investigation. The investigation is ongoing.
Inspector Willoughby stated that "Project Bingo serves as another significant example of our officers' unwavering commitment and perseverance in disrupting drug trafficking and addressing violence in the community."