Since launching in late 2025, officers working on the Saanich Police Midtown Taskforce have completed hundreds of hours of foot patrols throughout the Uptown–Douglas area. The taskforce was created to increase police visibility, deter crime and proactively address community concerns.
As part of this work, Midtown Taskforce officers have checked in with business operators nearly 200 times, disrupted drug use and trafficking activity in both commercial and residential areas, and arrested an individual wanted on 14 outstanding warrants.
In one investigation, officers searched a vehicle suspected of being involved in drug trafficking on a residential side street. During the search, officers located a prohibited weapon, items associate with drug trafficking, and quantities of methamphetamine, psilocybin, fentanyl, as well as prescription pill bottles containing Dilaudid and Oxycodone. This file resulted in multiple charges related to drug trafficking.
In a separate incident, while patrolling the Uptown-Douglas area, officers encountered individuals near the loading dock of a commercial building. While speaking with them, officers determined that one individual was wanted on 14 outstanding warrants related to files in Saanich and two other Capital Region jurisdictions. The individual was arrested and held in custody pending their next court appearance.
These files illustrate the impact our Midtown Taskforce is having in the community. To date, anecdotal feedback indicates the project is producing positive results and helping to maintain a safe environment for residents, businesses, and visitors in the Uptown‑Douglas area.
Funding for this project has been provided through a grant from the Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General and reflects a shared commitment to community safety.
Note: More information about what the District of Saanich defines as the Uptown-Douglas area can be found here.