At approximately 11:30 p.m. on May 26 members of the Sooke RCMP executed a Search Warrant for controlled drugs in a home on Lanark Road in Sooke.
"We had been alerted to the presence of readily available weapons in the home and therefore the RCMP Island District Emergency Response Team were called in to "assist", said S/Sgt. Jeff McArthur of the Sooke RCMP.
Four adult males and a 16-year-old female were arrested at the home and remain in custody at the time of this release.
The search of the home has now concluded, but the investigation continues. A substantial quantity of controlled drugs have been seized, believed to include methamphetamine, GHB and Psiocybin mushrooms. Drug trafficking paraphernalia has also been seized as well as stolen property, a replica handgun, machetes and knives, and ammunition.
"What we believe to be a significant drug trafficking operation was within 100 metros of Sooke elementary school. The member of Sooke Detachment want to send a strong message that this activity will not be tolerated anywhere in this community, especially not such close proximity to our children," said McArthur.