The Winnipeg Police Service has recently seen a significant increase in open drug use and drug trafficking in public places in Winnipeg. This has led to overwhelming community concerns and complaints over public safety issues in neighbourhoods adversely affected by open drug use.
As a police service, we have a responsibility to address the harm being caused by the drug trade. We remain committed to targeting those who profit from addiction -- those who traffic illicit substances and contribute to the cycle of harm.
But we also know enforcement alone is not the solution.
Despite these efforts, drugs continue to reach our streets, and the impacts are visible. Open drug use is occurring in public spaces and it’s not something our community should have to accept. It affects safety, public health, and quality of life. And we must respond.
The Winnipeg Police Service has strategically increased presence in neighbourhoods most affected. These are data-driven geographic areas based on crime data, and mapping that will assist in identifying emerging trends and guide further enforcement and intervention efforts. These areas will continue to see an increased and visible police presence.
So far, the Winnipeg Police Service has achieved measurable results:
- 100 total interactions with individuals using drugs in public spaces
- 25 total arrests with two specifically related to drug possession or trafficking
- 3 individuals taken to Protective Care Centre
We are not criminalizing addiction. While the goal of the initiative is ultimately to deter and reduce open drug use and disrupt drug trafficking to make public spaces safer for all residents, individuals struggling with addictions will be offered connections to social supports and partner agencies.