Community Safety Alert: Iqaluit RCMP Disrupt Alleged Cocaine Trafficking Network
Overview of the RCMP Operation
Police in Iqaluit, Nunavut have laid multiple charges against two men following an investigation into an alleged cocaine trafficking operation linked to the mail system. The case began in September 2025, when a parcel destined for Iqaluit was intercepted and found to contain approximately one kilogram of cocaine.
Building on this postal seizure, the Iqaluit RCMP General Investigation Section (GIS) executed search warrants in March 2026, seizing cash, electronics, a weapon, and a large silver bar believed to be linked to the investigation. Two individuals, identified as Ian Hardage and Mark Prussick, now face trafficking and related Criminal Code charges. Both have been released on bail and are scheduled to appear in court on April 20, 2026.
Official RCMP Details
The investigation began in September 2025 under RCMP file number 2025-1386608, after Canada Post Postal Inspectors flagged a parcel addressed to Iqaluit as non-mailable and turned it over to law enforcement. RCMP officers determined that the package contained about one kilogram of cocaine, and the details were forwarded to the Iqaluit RCMP GIS for a broader investigation.
As the investigation progressed, officers carried out the following enforcement actions:
- September 2025: A parcel destined for Iqaluit is intercepted and found to contain approximately one kilogram of suspected cocaine.
- March 13, 2026: RCMP execute a search warrant at a residence in Iqaluit, seizing suspected proceeds and evidence.
- March 20, 2026: RCMP execute a search warrant on a parcel shipped from Iqaluit and in transit outside the territory, seizing a significant quantity of silver.
Items Seized
During the March 13, 2026 search at a residence in Iqaluit, RCMP report seizing:
- Approximately $27,000 in cash
- Four cell phones
- A drug score sheet (believed to document transactions or debts)
- A cross-bow
On March 20, 2026, following a search warrant on a parcel shipped from Iqaluit and in transit through the postal system to a location outside Nunavut, police report seizing:
- One 100-ounce silver bar, which has been retained as evidence
Charges Laid
As a result of the ongoing investigation, the following charges have been laid against Ian Hardage and Mark Prussick:
- Trafficking in a controlled substance, contrary to section 5(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act
- Conspiracy to commit an indictable offence, contrary to section 465(1)(c) of the Criminal Code
Additional charges for Mark Prussick:
- Possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000, contrary to section 354(1)(a) of the Criminal Code
- Possession of a cross-bow while prohibited, contrary to section 117.01 of the Criminal Code
Both accused have been released on bail and are next scheduled to appear in court on April 20, 2026. RCMP indicate that the investigation is ongoing.
Image from the Investigation
The RCMP released an image depicting items seized in the investigation, including a weapon, cash, and suspected drugs:
Caption: Seized weapon, cash and drugs
How the Community Can Assist
The Iqaluit RCMP are asking the public to report any information related to this case or other drug activity in the area. Community tips can play a crucial role in interrupting the flow of illicit drugs into northern communities.
If you have information about this investigation or other suspected drug trafficking in Iqaluit, contact the Iqaluit RCMP at 867-979-0123.
If you prefer to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS).
CrimeCanada.ca Safety Perspective
At CrimeCanada.ca, we monitor incidents like this alleged trafficking network in Iqaluit because illegal drugs and associated criminal activity can have long-term impacts on health, safety, and community trust—especially in smaller and remote northern communities. Large seizures of cocaine and suspected proceeds such as cash and precious metals often point to organized and sustained trafficking efforts rather than isolated incidents.
Residents can stay informed by reviewing local crime trends in resources like our Iqaluit crime statistics and safety data, and by promptly reporting suspicious packages, unusual activity around residences, or frequent short visits consistent with drug trafficking patterns. Choosing anonymous options such as Crime Stoppers allows community members to share information safely. By combining official enforcement efforts with informed public vigilance, Nunavut communities can work together to limit the harm caused by hard drugs and related violence and exploitation.
Official Source & Community Safety
This safety alert is based on an official release from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). CrimeCanada.ca aggregates and analyzes this data to keep the nunavut community informed, aware, and safe. We are an independent safety data aggregator and not the original creators of the underlying incident report.
Read the full official release here: RCMP Official Statement.