RCMP lay more than 100 charges in drug bust in Portage la Prairie

RCMP showed off items on May 18, 2012 that were seized earlier in the week in a raid in Portage la Prairie.

RCMP said a major project has led to dozens of charges being laid this week, with guns and drugs seized.

The raid happened in Portage la Prairie earlier this week.

On Friday, officers showed off guns, drugs and cash seized during the raid made as part of Project Demerit.

About $20,000 worth of cocaine, marijuana and ecstasy were seized.

In all, more than 100 charges were laid against 30 suspects, with two more still wanted. Police initially said 60 charges were laid but updated that total Friday afternoon.

"Trafficking of street drugs destroys lives, homes and communities" said Bill Robinson, commanding officer of RCMP "D" Division. "Each and every arrest, project, seizure or investigation sends a message and makes a difference."

The project started in October 2011. RCMP said the goal was to target street-level drug traffickers.

Officers said the project will continue.

- with a report from CTV's Stacey Ashley