Winnipeg police drug crackdown to resume after ‘positive results,’ chief says

Winnipeg police are set to continue their open drug use enforcement initiative this fall, following what Police Chief Gene Bowers described as "positive results" from a 10-day operation in late June. The initial initiative, which focused on downtown Winnipeg and Point Douglas due to high crime rates and naloxone administrations, resulted in 106 arrests and a noticeable decrease in crime.

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Enforcement isn’t a solution by itself, but it has a place.

During the 10-day period, police responded to over 1,000 related events. Of the 106 arrests, 93 were for warrants or breaches of conditions, with five drug possession charges and three drug trafficking charges laid. Seven individuals were taken to detox or protective care centers. Compared to the same period in 2025, violent crimes fell by 16.5 percent and property crimes decreased by 10.5 percent.

Following initial feedback suggesting a need for greater community collaboration, the Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) has begun working with stakeholders. "We arrived at a shared commitment to work together to achieve the best possible results for those we serve," Bowers stated. The expanded project, launching Friday and continuing into November, will include Osborne Village in addition to the previously targeted downtown and Point Douglas areas.

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While enforcement remains an important tool in addressing drug trafficking and related criminal activity, our initial open drug use initiative has also produced positive results.

The renewed initiative will also incorporate community outreach teams who will work alongside police patrols. These teams aim to provide resources, immediate assistance, and follow-up support to individuals struggling with addiction or homelessness. Jackie Anderson, executive director of Ka Ni Kanichihk, confirmed her non-profit will contribute its Indigenous knowledge to support WPS and care for vulnerable individuals.

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We arrived at a shared commitment to work together to achieve the best possible results for those we serve.