A crime group in Clare has been taken down.
Meteghan RCMP say four men were arrested after search warrants Wednesday at several locations in Church Point and one in Belliveau’s Cove.
The 13-month investigation was called ‘Project Hammertime.’
RCMP say the men behaved liked they owned Clare, and caused disruption through criminal activities and intimidation tactics.
A 66-year-old man has a dozen charges, including arson, drug trafficking and intimidation, he’s also facing charges under the Fisheries Act.
He remains in custody, the three others were released on strict conditions.
The men range in age from 33-66.
Police say the investigation is ongoing.
Arrests a relief for community ‘in fear’
The violence and threats have been tied to illegal fishing activity in Clare.
Reports of arson, homes being shot at and extortion have been rampant the last two years.
RCMP Sgt. Jeff LeBlanc says it took some time, but these arrests will bring some relief to the community.
“We’re hopeful and confident that we’ve built a strong enough case that we’ll see change in our community,” said Sgt. LeBlanc.
He requested an investigative team, involving DFO and DNR to form a task force.
“It took us a while to get there, which a proper investigation always does. Patience is not my virtue, but that’s what it takes to build a proper case. As RCMP, we deal with everything, but where this involved illegal fishing, we are not experts, we wanted to work with other groups.”
Over 100 people attended a community meeting in Saulnierville Wednesday to hear the update on the operation and charges.
Sgt. LeBlanc adds that it was important to explain the process, why it took so long and all the resources that were used.
