Charges laid in connection with large drug seizure in Quesnel

A 23-year old man is in custody after Quesnel RCMP seized a large quantity of drugs after using a spike belt to stop a stolen vehicle on Highway 97.

RCMP Staff Sergeant Richard Weseen says they attempted to stop a vehicle on Carson Avenue on Saturday (Aug 3) night at around 10 o’clock.

“The white Audi SUV fled at a high rate of speed. An hour later, the police observe the Audi driving dangerously on Anderson Drive, nearly causing a collision with another vehicle. After the Audi failed to stop for police a second time, it was reported stolen by the owner.”

Weseen says it was then located by police just before midnight (approximately 11:50 p.m.) travelling south on Highway 97 and was successfully disabled with the use of a spike belt at Red Bluff Road.

“The driver ran from the vehicle and was apprehended a short distance away with the assistance of a police dog. During the investigation, the police seized a replica handgun, over 1.3 kilograms of suspected fentanyl, other assorted illicit drugs, ammunition, and over $7,000 in cash.”

Weseen says it was fortunate that the driver of the Audi didn’t hurt anyone with his aggressive and dangerous driving.

“The driver had a blatant disregard for the safety of the public with reports of erratic driving, cross the center line, failing to stop, almost causing collisions with other vehicles. It is also alleged the driver purposely drove toward a police officer as he was deploying a spike belt.”

Farbyn Japow has now been charged with flight from police, dangerous operation of a motor vehicle, driving while prohibited, resisting arrest, possession of a weapon, failing to comply with a probation order, and failing to comply with a release order.

Weseen says at the time of his arrest, Japow also had outstanding warrants out of two other jurisdictions, including Prince George..

He has been remanded into custody and his next court appearance is set for August 26th in Quesnel.