Two men charged after major central Alberta drug bust seizes 6kg cocaine
Red Deer RCMP executed seven search warrants across four communities, recovering drugs, cash and firearms in months-long investigation.
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Two men face drug trafficking charges following a major investigation by Red Deer RCMP that resulted in the seizure of 6 kilograms of cocaine, more than 1.4 kilograms of psilocybin mushrooms, and more than 600 grams of methamphetamine.
The RCMP investigation began in March 2026. On September 10, officers executed seven search warrants across three homes, a business, two camper trailers, and one vehicle in Red Deer, Innisfail, Airdrie, and a rural area north of Sundre. They also seized more than $280,000 in cash, an Uzi-style submachine gun, three handguns, and ammunition.
"This investigation resulted in the seizure of significant quantities of illicit drugs, cash, and firearms that would otherwise have been distributed throughout our communities," Red Deer RCMP Inspector Jeff McBeth said in a statement.
Rory Brand, 37, of Airdrie, was charged with multiple drug trafficking offences, proceeds of crime offences, and firearms offences. He was denied release and remains in custody. Robert Newell, 43, of Red Deer, was charged with drug trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000. Newell was released with conditions.
Both are scheduled to appear in court October 2.
By the numbers
How much cocaine was seized in the Red Deer RCMP drug bust?
Red Deer RCMP seized 6 kilograms of cocaine during the investigation.
When were the search warrants executed?
Officers executed seven search warrants on September 10, 2026.
How much cash was recovered?
More than $280,000 in cash was seized across the search locations.
What other drugs were found besides cocaine?
Red Deer RCMP recovered more than 1.4 kilograms of psilocybin mushrooms and more than 600 grams of methamphetamine.
