Canadian man arrested for selling drugs from a mobile shop in Vancouver

The arrest was made on Thursday, a day after Martin launched his store.

Although Vancouver police have apprehended Martin for drug trafficking related to an illegal drug dispensary, no formal charges have been filed yet, as reported by the BBC.

Jerry Martin began selling illegal drugs out of a mobile trailer parked in Vancouver's Downtown Eastside, reported NDTV.

His store allowed adults to purchase drugs by presenting their ID cards. Martin claimed he opened the mobile shop to provide a safe supply of drugs in an area that has been severely affected by the "overdose epidemic".

He further stated that all his drugs had been tested to ensure they did not contain fentanyl, the synthetic opioid responsible for the majority of overdose deaths.

Martin had planned to sell small quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, heroin, and crack, up to 2.5 grams, with the aim of preventing further deaths.

In addition, the 51-year-old Jerry Martin claimed that he had intended to open his store after Health Canada's recent decision to decriminalize the possession of small quantities of hard drugs in the province of British Columbia (BC) for a three-year pilot project.

He also revealed his plan to challenge his arrest in court, stating that contaminated drug supplies pose a risk.

Constable Tania Visintin expressed support for measures aimed at improving public safety for drug users, such as harm reduction services and decriminalization, while also clarifying that the police would continue to enforce drug trafficking laws, reported NDTV.

Currently, Mr Martin is free pending a court hearing and has been directed to stay away from Vancouver's Downtown Eastside.