Two West Shore residents were charged with one count each of possession for the purpose of trafficking on April 22. Police allege they were seen trafficking drugs during breaks from a Supreme Court case where they were already accused of previous drug offences.
In January 2021, Atta Otchere and Zoran Cooke were arrested by Saanich Police after they seized about 38 grams of crack cocaine, divided into 106 small packages, from the duo. Both were charged and appeared in Supreme Court over several days in April 2024.
"During breaks when they were not in court—including after being found guilty, but before sentencing – VicPD Strike Force officers observed the men engaging in suspected drug trafficking throughout Greater Victoria," noted a news release from the Victoria Police Department.
Police obtained search warrants which were executed in May 2024 at three locations, with assistance from the Island District RCMP Emergency Response Team and West Shore RCMP. About 250 grams of cocaine and $4,000 in cash were seized.
“It is deeply concerning that these individuals continued to engage in drug trafficking while attending court for drug trafficking offences,” said Chief Constable Del Manak. “Their actions demonstrate a blatant disregard for the justice system and the safety of our community. I commend our Strike Force Unit for their continued efforts to disrupt and dismantle drug trafficking networks.”
Police are unable to share more details about the investigation as the matter is now before the courts.
