News release

Search warrant results in a significant seizure of illicit drugs and firearms

February 23, 2026 - Nanaimo, British Columbia
From: Nanaimo RCMP

Content

On November 14, 2025, the Nanaimo RCMP’s Projects (Drug) Unit, with the assistance of Island District Emergency Response Team (ERT) and Front-line officers, carried out a Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) search warrant on a residence located in the 200 block of Milton St. The search of the residence located a substantial quantity of illicit drugs, weapons, and firearms.

It should be noted that the residence in question is located approximately 200 meters from Nanaimo RCMP Detachment and Nanaimo Fire and Rescue.

On February 10, 2026, Public Prosecution Service of Canada approved numerous charges against two individuals associated to the residence: 53-year-old Dylan Tanti and 39-year-old Charlotte Cargill. 

A search of the residence resulted in the seizure of:

• Over 30 grams of cocaine;
• Nearly 100 grams of a fentanyl mixture;
• 55 bottles of methadone (80ml/bottle); 
• Nearly 600 morphine capsules;
• Various drug‑trafficking paraphernalia;
• Two conducted energy weapons (tasers);
• Six firearms, including: 
  • A semi‑automatic .22 calibre rifle with scope and four loaded extended capacity magazines
  • A 3D‑printed pistol
  • Three shotguns;
  • A .22 calibre rifle;
• A significant quantity of assorted ammunition

At the time of his arrest, Tanti was allegedly found in possession of 3.46 grams of cocaine and 14.53 grams of fentanyl. 

The following charges have been approved against Dylan Tanti: 

1. Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, S.5(2) CDSA ×8
2. Possession of Prohibited/Restricted Firearm with Ammunition, S.95(1) CC ×2
3. Possession of Prohibited Weapon Without a Licence, S.91(2) CC
4. Possession of a Firearm Without a Licence and/or Registration, S.91(1) CC ×6
5. Possession of a Prohibited Weapon While Unauthorized, S.117.01(1) CC ×3

The following charges have been approved against Charlotte Cargill:

1. Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking, S.5(2) CDSA ×8
2. Possession of Prohibited/Restricted Firearm with Ammunition, S.95(1) CC ×2
3. Possession of Prohibited Weapon Without a Licence, S.91(2) CC
4. Possession of a Firearm Without a Licence and/or Registration, S.91(1) CC ×6

Both Tanti and Cargill were released pending disclosure and warrant application. Warrants were subsequently issued for both individuals. Tanti was located and arrested on February 14, 2026, and remains in custody awaiting a new court date. Cargill has not been located, and an arrest warrant for her arrest remains outstanding.

Inspector Donovan Tait, Operations Officer for Nanaimo RCMP Detachment, commented, “This investigation highlights the critical importance of street level drug enforcement in our community. The volume of dangerous substances and firearms seized in this case represents a significant threat to public safety, especially given the home’s proximity to essential services and vulnerable residents. I am extremely proud of the diligent work our drug investigators and supporting officers continue to do each day to disrupt organized drug activity and keep Nanaimo safe.”

Anyone with information on the whereabouts of 39-year Charlotte Cargill is asked to contact the Nanaimo RCMP non‑emergency line at 250‑754‑2345.

Contacts