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Red Deer RCMP Cst. Andrew Devine talks about the significant seizure on Thursday in Red Deer. (Image Credit: Ian Gustafson/rdnewsNOW)
Two arrested

Red Deer RCMP GIS make significant drug, firearm seizure after six-month investigation

Oct 1, 2026 | 2:58 PM

The Red Deer RCMP General Investigative Section (GIS) has concluded a six-month investigation, which resulted in a significant drug and firearm seizure.

The RCMP began their investigation in March 2026 in the Red Deer area and, over the next several months, identified two suspects and several locations of interest.

On Sept. 10, they executed search warrants at seven different locations in Red Deer, Innisfail, Airdrie, and a rural area north of Sundre.

These search warrants were completed in three residences, a business, two camper trailers, and a motor vehicle.

As a result, they seized over six kilograms of cocaine, over $280,000 in cash, 1.4 kilograms of psilocybin mushrooms, over 600 grams of methamphetamine, a Uzi-style firearm, three handguns, and various ammunition and magazines. They also seized other items consistent with drug trafficking as well.


(Image Credit: Ian Gustafson/rdnewsNOW)

Red Deer RCMP Cst. Andrew Devine said what they seized represents a real disruption in drug trafficking in Red Deer.

“It really is a big dent in organized crime in the area. For Red Deer, this is significant. This is certainly one of the largest seizures our unit has had,” he said.

Rory Brand, a 37-year-old man from Airdrie, was charged with two counts of possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, tampering with a serial number of a firearm, and six other criminal charges related to legal possession of firearms.

He was brought before a justice of the peace in a judicial interim release hearing and was remanded into custody. He was scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 1.

Meanwhile, Red Deer’s Robert Newell, 43, was charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000.

He was brought before a justice of the peace in a judicial interim release hearing and was released on a cash bail. He was scheduled to appear in court on Oct. 1.

Devine said they are digging into more possible suspects and added that there’s a possibility of future arrests related to the file.

He explained that drug trafficking should be prioritized as one of the most serious concerns in the community.

“It’s shrinking a little bit, I would say, but there’s always issues of drug trafficking in communities,” Devine added.