Norman Wells RCMP seize illicit drugs after responding to reported bootlegging

August 19, 2026 - Norman Wells, Northwest Territories
From: Northwest Territories RCMP

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A man has been charged with drug possession after Norman Wells RCMP responded to a report of bootlegging activity within the community.

On August 14th, officers in Norman Wells received a report that several people were loading a boat full of alcohol and heading to Tulita. Officers attended the docks and made contact with the vessel. Five individuals were detained as part of an investigation under the Liquor Act.

Excessive quantities of alcohol were located onboard the vessel, and one of the individuals was found to be in possession of over 17 grams of suspected cocaine.

As a result, a 42-year-old Tulita man was arrested and faces charges of:

• Possession of a controlled substance, contrary to section 4(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
• Possession of liquor at an unlawful place, contrary to section 78 of the Liquor Act

He was brought to the detachment and released to appear in court at a later date.

He cannot be named as his charges have not yet been formally sworn in court.

Norman Wells RCMP would like to thank the community for their continued support and partnership in addressing the illicit drug and alcohol trade in the region.

Anyone with information on these or other crimes is encouraged to contact the Norman Wells RCMP at 867-587-1111 or Crime Stoppers at https://p3tips.com

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