After conducting a search warrant at an apartment unit on Sunday, Inuvik RCMP seized drugs and cash with support from the NT RCMP Critical Incident Program, which includes the Emergency Response Team, G Division Crisis Negotiation Team and Police Dog Services.
On April 27, Inuvik RCMP began a criminal investigation at a residence. While executing a search warrant, they located three suspects.
A suspect was arrested inside the residence, but two others fled through a back window. RCMP members located and arrested one male without incident. The second suspect was later located at a local residence, and arrested without incident.
During the search, RCMP members seized 125 grams of crack cocaine and over $5000 in cash.
As a result of the investigation, Abubakar Bakal, 31, of Edmonton, AB, is facing charges:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, contrary to section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code;
- Wilfully obstructs a peace officer, contrary to Criminal Code 129(a);
- Carrying a concealed weapon, contrary to section 90(1) of the Criminal Code;
- Pointing a firearm at a person, contrary to section 87(1) of the Criminal Code;
- Uttering threats to cause bodily harm or death, contrary to section 264.1(1)(a) of the Criminal Code;
- Break and enter with intent, contrary to section 348(1)(a) of the Criminal Code.
- Forcible confinement, contrary to section 279(2) of the Criminal Code.
Candice Cockney, 40, from Inuvik, NT, is facing charges:
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking, contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000, contrary to section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code;
- Wilfully obstructing a peace officer, contrary to Criminal Code 129(a).
Steven Nerysoo, 34, is facing charges of wilfully obstructing a peace officer and resisting arrest, both contrary to Criminal Code 129(a).
Abubakar Bakal remains in custody and will appear in court on May 1. Both Candice Cockney and Steven Nerysoo have been released under conditions and will appear in court on June 17 in Inuvik.
“I would like to praise the excellent work done by Inuvik RCMP and the NT RCMP Critical Incident Program who conducted a thorough investigation into this incident. The Inuvik RCMP will continue to target individuals who seek to profit from the illicit sale of these harmful substances,” said Staff Sergeant Jesse Aubin, Detachment Commander of Inuvik RCMP.
The RCMP ask anyone who has information about this incident or any other illegal activity is asked to contact the Inuvik RCMP at 777-1111 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or www.nwtnu.crimestoppersweb.com. In the event of an emergency call, the RCMP ask the public to call 911.
