Hundreds of Weapons, Drugs Seized in Lethbridge Investigation

An extensive investigation into drug trafficking and organized crime in Lethbridge, Alberta, has led to a significant seizure of weapons, drugs, and cash. The Alberta Law Enforcement Response Team (ALERT), with assistance from the Lethbridge Police Service, executed a search warrant on a residence in the 2000 block of 7 Avenue North.

The operation uncovered a vast arsenal of weapons, described by ALERT as "one of the largest weapons seizures recorded by ALERT." The cache included 19 rifles, three shotguns, one pistol, approximately 4,700 rounds of ammunition, 12 prohibited weapons, and nearly 170 knives and other edged weapons. Notably, the seizure also included a set of Freddy Krueger-like claws, along with swords, axes, machetes, and collapsible batons.

In addition to the weapons, police confiscated approximately $20,000 worth of illicit drugs, including cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl, oxycodone, and LSD. They also seized $13,649 in cash and 20 cartons of contraband tobacco products. Two individuals were arrested at the scene and face numerous charges, including possession of drugs for the purpose of trafficking, possession of proceeds of crime, possession of body armor, and various firearms-related offenses.

ALERT officials believe many of the seized weapons were likely traded for drugs. The RCMP's National Weapons Enforcement Support Team is investigating the origins of the firearms, none of which were legally possessed. One rifle was identified as having been reported stolen in Brooks, Alberta. The investigation into suspected drug activity at the home began in June 2026.