Two in custody after drug unit uncovers operation producing brightly coloured, dinosaur-shaped fentanyl; public warned not to touch any unfamiliar items
The Winnipeg Police Service (WPS) is issuing a stark public warning after a drug trafficking investigation led to the seizure of fentanyl professionally moulded into the shape of colourful dinosaurs and other child-like candy forms.
The investigation began in September 2025, when the WPS Drug Enforcement Unit began probing fentanyl trafficking in the West Broadway area.
On Sept. 24, the investigation culminated in the arrests of a 39-year-old man and a 25-year-old woman. During the man’s arrest, officers discovered nearly 38 grams of fentanyl, shaped into the deceptive forms, with an estimated street value of $15,080.
A search warrant was executed at an apartment suite in the 1-99 block of Furby Street. The search uncovered a significant drug production operation.
Items seized include:
-134 grams of processed fentanyl ($53,600 estimated value)
-Five grams of unprocessed fentanyl, which police say has the potential to be cut into 5,000 street-level doses
-A mixing/cutting agent
-A taser with six cartridges and pepper spray
-$235 in Canadian currency
-Rubber moulds, scales, and drug packaging paraphernalia
“Five grams of unprocessed fentanyl has the potential to create 5,000 doses of street level fentanyl once a mixing/cutting agent is added,” said Winnipeg Police Service in a statement. “As little as two micrograms of fentanyl or the equivalent of two grains of salt is considered a lethal dose.”
A 39-year old man and a 25-year-old woman woman are facing multiple drug trafficking, weapons, and firearms-related offences.
Both have been released on Undertakings.
Critical public safety warning
The WPS is urging the public to be extremely vigilant. If you encounter any small, colourful, moulded substances resembling the items described, do not touch them. Immediately contact the police non-emergency line at 204-986-6222. Call 911 if someone is experiencing a medical crisis.
In light of the ongoing risks of opioid overdoses, police and health officials reiterate the importance of harm reduction strategies: never use drugs alone and always carry a naloxone kit.
Additional resources can be found at Street Connections, Addictions Foundation of Manitoba or Call or Text the Manitoba Addictions Helpline at 1-855-662-6605.
