RCMP conducts drugs and weapons bust in Ponoka

PONOKA -- Large quantities of drugs and cash have been seized after a search warrant was executed in Ponoka.

According to RCMP, the search was conducted in late July and resulted in multiple arrests. They say that their investigation began when police observed 42-year-old suspect Aaron Olsen trafficking controlled substances inside a vehicle at a property in Ponoka. Upon a search of his vehicle, 90 grams fentanyl were recovered, along with 112 grams of cocaine, 149 grams of meth, $6,850 in cash, and a firearm. He was subsequently arrested along with the vehicle's passenger, 29-year-old Paige Ziegler.

Following the search, police then conducted a search of the nearby residence, which was occupied by 45-year-old Lauren Curtis. There, they found $1,360 in currency, 20 grams of meth, drug trafficking materials including scales and baggies, brass knuckles, and ammunition. Olsen was also taken into custody following the search.  All three of the individuals are now facing numerous charges, including possession for the purpose of trafficking a controlled substance, while Aaron Olsen faces additional charges for weapons-related offences.

"The collaborative efforts between multiple RCMP specialized teams has led to the successful arrest of a violent priority offender and the disruption of drug trafficking activities in Central Alberta. The targeted enforcement operation, involving the Wetaskiwin Crime Reduction Unit, Central Alberta District Crime Reduction Unit (CAD CRU), K Air Services, Emergency Response Team, Ponoka RCMP, K RTOC and Police Dog Services, resulted in multiple arrests, seizures of illegal drugs, cash and a firearm." says Cst. Tom Rutland.

Aaron Olsen and Paige Ziegler had their first court appearances on August 1, while Ponoka resident Lauren Curtis is set to appear on August 22.