Edmonton police have made a significant dent in local drug trafficking operations, arresting three men and confiscating a large cache of narcotics, contraband tobacco, and an illegal firearm during a targeted raid last month.
Major Seizure in Southwest Edmonton Home
On November 25, members of the Edmonton Police Service's Drug and Gang Enforcement (EDGE) section, supported by the tactical unit, executed a search warrant at a residence in the area of 214 Street and 49 Avenue. The operation resulted in the seizure of substantial illicit materials believed to be destined for the streets.
Officers recovered approximately 632 grams of cocaine, with an estimated street value of $37,000. In addition to the drugs, police found a staggering quantity of more than 89,000 illegal cigarettes, circumventing provincial taxes and regulations.
Firearms and Assets Also Confiscated
The discovery of a loaded handgun at the scene added a serious firearms component to the investigation. Police also seized roughly $34,000 in cash, suspected to be proceeds of crime.
Further items indicative of a trafficking operation were taken as evidence. These included drug paraphernalia such as scales and baggies, multiple cell phones, and two vehicles: a 2020 Land Rover Range Rover and a 2010 Mitsubishi Outlander.
Young Men Face Serious Charges
The three individuals present during the raid were immediately taken into custody. They have since been identified and charged.
Cengizhan Yurtcu, 18, along with Havanna Green, 22, and Uighuy Tulake, 22, are each facing multiple criminal counts. The charges include:
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking
- Possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000
- Possession of a loaded prohibited firearm
Police Concerned Over Accused Ages
In a news release issued on Tuesday, police officials expressed particular alarm at the youth of those involved. Staff Sergeant Marco Antonio of the EPS Organized Crime Branch highlighted the worrying trend.
"The ages of these accused are particularly concerning, and we encourage anyone — especially youth — to make choices that avoid criminality," stated Antonio. "Involvement in drug trafficking and gang-related crime can lead to devastating consequences, not only for the participants but for our community at large."
He commended the EDGE unit for another successful operation, noting their ongoing work to target individuals who profit from drugs and violence within Edmonton neighbourhoods.
The bust underscores the continued efforts of law enforcement to combat organized crime networks operating in the city, often involving young adults. The case remains active as police continue their investigations.
