Hundreds of demonstrators gathered in downtown Vancouver on Friday to protest the arrest of two members of the Drug User Liberation Front (DULF), a “community coalition” that distributes illegal substances such as heroin and cocaine on the streets of Vancouver .
The organization tests substances for purity before distribution, with the aim of preventing overdoses and reducing drug-related crime.
Two DULF members were arrested by Vancouver police on October 25, 2023 during a raid on their home and the organization’s headquarters.
“Although DULF’s intention is to reduce the impact of the offer [en drogue contaminée]”We have always advised that anyone who commits an offense under the Criminal Code or the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act can expect to be arrested and prosecuted,” Vancouver Police Department Inspector Phil Heard told CTV News .
Vancouver police also announced on October 26 that an in-depth investigation would be launched into the DULF’s illegal activities.
To protest the arrests, demonstrators gathered on Friday, chanting “DULF saves lives!”, according to English-language media.
“The climate for harm reduction and safety preparedness has become very hostile in recent years,” activist and podcast author Garth Mullins told the Vancouver Star, lamenting the reluctance of certain movements to take necessary action.
Protesters also called on the government to take measures to ensure safe and free supplies of narcotics to people who need them.
Since 2016, nearly 13,000 people have died from overdoses in British Columbia.
On its website, DULF claims to have a positive impact on reducing drug use, drug-related crime and drug-related violent incidents. The coalition also influences hospitalization rates, recidivism, and more.