Investigators of the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit of British Columbia (CFSEU-BC) Joint Illegal Gaming Investigation Team (JIGIT) began looking into a suspected gaming operation in Maple Ridge last November.
As the investigation unfolded, officers executed search warrants in Maple Ridge, Coquitlam, and Surrey on April 29.
As a result of the search warrants, 11 people have been arrested.
Along with the arrests, officers found and seized several items during the investigation.
A shotgun with a suppressor, over $34,000, three vehicles: 2012 Dodge Caravan, 2017 Range Rover, 2024 Honda CRV, gaming equipment including ledgers, poker tables, custom casino style chips, cards, and other gambling paraphernalia.
The JIGIT was able to obtain a B.C. casino ban on six of the individuals which took effect on April 30.
“Illegal gaming houses are not harmless operations—they are often tied to organized crime and bring significant risks to public safety, says Sgt. Sarbjit K. Sangha, CFSEU-BC media relations officer. “These locations can become hubs for violence, exploitation, and other criminal activity, putting both patrons and surrounding communities in danger.”
The investigation is ongoing and charges are anticipated.