An “explosive device” surprised RCMP officers conducting a search of a suspected drug house on Nowell Street last week.
Drug investigators suspect the device, which was not described in an RCMP news release, was likely stolen from a business involved in explosive work, and eventually made its way to the street.
“Fortunately, our members were able to identify the device and ensure it was removed safely from the apartment without any further risk to the members of the occupants,” Sgt. Steven McLeod, supervisor of the Chilliwack detachment’s crime reduction unit, said in the release.
He was not immediately available for comment Monday.
Police said two males and a female were arrested as a result of the search and released on a promise to appear later in court.
A large quantity of illegal drugs and cash believed to be related to drug trafficking were also seized, plus a firearm and a number of dangerous or prohibited weapons.
“What was most surprising was the discovery of an explosive device that could have been used to cause significant injury to the occupants of those (apartment) units or members of the public,” McLeod said.
The searches were sparked by information that occupants of the two apartment units were selling illegal drugs, he said, and the RCMP hope “continued partnerships with the community” will lead to more arrests.
