Frustration mounts as drug raids sweep problems out of downtown, into West End
West End business owners say their neighbourhood has been under siege for months, with downtown police drug sweeps pushing street disorder west — and customers out.
Downtown drug raids have proven effective in clearing street disorder, but they have displaced the problems to the West End. Business owners in this area are experiencing increased violence, theft, and drug use. Michael Paille, a business owner, has been involved in breaking up fights and helping vulnerable individuals, but has also faced threats and attacks.
He claims that police response times are too slow, often arriving hours after incidents occur. West End residents and officials have requested a sustained police presence to address the issues, but the Winnipeg Police Service has not responded to comments.
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