Victoria Cannabis Buyers Club Reports $100,000 in Products Seized During Provincial Raid

Provincial authorities conducted a raid on the Victoria Cannabis Buyers Club on Tuesday, seizing approximately $100,000 worth of cannabis products, according to the organization’s founder. The operation, carried out by British Columbia’s Community Safety Unit (CSU) with support from Victoria police, marks the second major enforcement action against the unlicensed dispensary in recent years.

Club founder Ted Smith stated that CSU officers arrived shortly after the Quadra Street location opened and began a thorough search of the premises. “They’re going through each room, every nook and cranny, and trying to find where any cannabis may be stored,” Smith said. He confirmed that the seized inventory included cannabis products intended for the club’s members, many of whom are low-income individuals, seniors, or those managing chronic illnesses.

The Victoria Cannabis Buyers Club operates as a non-profit compassion club, providing access to cannabis at higher doses and lower costs than what is available through licensed retailers. Smith emphasized that this pricing and dosing model prevents the organization from qualifying for a federal license under current Health Canada regulations, which impose strict limits on THC content and packaging.

Following the seizure, CSU officers removed the confiscated materials in garbage bags and black tote bins, transporting them to a van outside the facility shortly before noon. A little group of protesters gathered outside the club during the raid, with one participant shouting, “You’re taking our medicine,” as officers exited the building.

This incident follows a similar enforcement action more than three years prior, underscoring ongoing tensions between unlicensed compassion clubs and provincial regulators. While Victoria police attended the scene to assist with safety, the CSU led the operation under its mandate to address illegal drug distribution.

The club maintains that it serves a vital role in providing affordable access to medical cannabis for underserved populations who may not be able to access licensed products due to cost or dosage limitations. As of the time of the raid, no charges had been announced in connection with the seizure.