Nova Scotia’s campaign against illegal cannabis sales intensified this year as RCMP carried out sweeping enforcement actions across several communities.
On March 3, 2026, officers conducted coordinated inspections at illegal cannabis storefronts in Eskasoni First Nation, Potlotek First Nation, Paq’tnkek First Nation, Waycobah First Nation, and Digby.
Officers seized unregulated cannabis products and issued summary offense tickets under the Cannabis Control Act. Police said these efforts are part of an ongoing push to address the health risks and unregulated nature of illicit cannabis products.
This comes amidst a broader discussion about a provincial directive issued in December instructing police to prioritize illegal cannabis enforcement. Some Indigenous leaders criticized the directive as a political intrusion into policing that disproportionately impacts First Nations communities.
To reinforce enforcement powers, the province introduced legislation in February aimed at increasing fines and strengthening penalties for unlicensed cannabis operations.
Officials say the changes are intended to address ongoing challenges since legalization, as illegal dispensaries continue to outnumber legal outlets in many regions.
