An unbuckled seatbelt prevented 54 grams of cocaine from reaching its destination in Witchekan Lake, Sask.
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On Nov. 1, Meadow Lake RCMP’s Combined Traffic Services Saskatchewan (CTSS) stopped a vehicle on Highway 55 east of Meadow Lake after noticing a passenger wasn’t wearing a seatbelt.
After checking the information of the vehicle’s three occupants, a CTSS officer detained them at the scene as part of a drug investigation.
The officer searched the occupants and reportedly found suspected illegal drugs and packaging materials consistent with drug trafficking. All three were arrested.
A subsequent search of the vehicle led to the discovery of 54 grams of suspected cocaine, drug paraphernalia, a scale, three cellphones, several baggies and a metal collapsible baton.
John Duchak, 40, of McCreary, Man., is charged with:
- one count of possession for the purpose of trafficking, Schedule I;
- one count of possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose; and
- one count of possession of a prohibited weapon.
Jason Sawitsky, 38, of Witchekan Lake First Nation, Sask., is charged with:
- three counts of possession of a weapon contrary to order;
- two counts of failing to comply with an undertaking condition;
- one count of identification fraud; and
- one count of obstructing a police officer.
Sharleen Scott, 44, of Witchekan Lake First Nation, Sask., is charged with one count of possession for the purpose of trafficking, Schedule I.
All three are scheduled to appear in court in Meadow Lake, Sask., on Jan. 5, 2026.
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