Five-month Nanaimo RCMP probe leads to drug trafficking and firearm charges

A five-month investigation by Nanaimo RCMP has resulted in multiple drug and firearm-related charges against two Nanaimo residents, following the seizure of controlled substances, weapons and body armour from a local residence.

Police say the investigation began in early November 2024 after general duty officers received information that a home in Nanaimo was being used to traffic illegal drugs. With assistance from the RCMP General Investigation Section and the Projects Drug Unit, officers executed a search warrant at the residence on April 17, 2025.

During the search, investigators seized quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine, along with more than 200 illicit pills. Police also recovered a Ruger carbine, a Norinco shotgun and hard body armour. The Ruger firearm was later confirmed to have been stolen during a break and enter in Port Alberni.

On December 8, 2025, charge approval was secured against 44-year-old Norman Miller of Nanaimo. The charges include multiple firearm offences under the Criminal Code, possession of property obtained by crime and five counts of possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

Additional firearm-related charges were also approved against 42-year-old Carlene Sneddon of Nanaimo. RCMP say the investigation highlights ongoing concerns about the intersection of illegal drug trafficking and firearms in Island communities, particularly as fentanyl continues to drive overdose deaths across British Columbia.