FREDERICTON (N.B) – The Fredericton Police Force are reporting a significant increase in methamphetamine seizures and fentanyl overdoses this year, signaling changes in the local drug market.
Methamphetamine seizures more than doubled in 2025, while fentanyl seizures surpassed those of cocaine for the first time (see chart below).
"The rise in dangerous drugs and overdoses underscores the ongoing challenges we face in our community. While these seizures suggest that our enforcement strategies are having an effect and demonstrate our efforts to respond to changes in the local drug market, they also indicate that there is still a great deal of work ahead to truly disrupt the influx of drugs and protect our residents," said Chief Gary Forward. “Through our Integrated Enforcement Unit and targeted operations, we are making progress in addressing trafficking networks, but it’s clear that continued and expanded efforts are integral to our success moving forward.”
Fentanyl, a synthetic opioid 50 to 100 times stronger than morphine, can be deadly in as little as two milligrams. It depresses breathing and is highly addictive. Methamphetamine is a powerful stimulant that boosts dopamine, energy and alertness, but also causes aggression, insomnia, and long-term brain damage. Many meth overdoses involve fentanyl contamination.
As of November 1, 2025, reported overdoses jumped to 162, compared with 97 in 2024 and 54 in 2023. Fatalities reached nine, including four cases pending coroner confirmation, compared with eight in 2024 and three in 2023. (see chart)
In 2025, the Fredericton Police Force’s Integrated Enforcement Unit (IEU) has played a central role in disrupting the local drug trade, seizing nearly 2.9 kilograms of methamphetamine, more than 830 grams of fentanyl and over 800 grams of cocaine through targeted investigations and search warrants.
Key statistics
Drug Seizures:
| Drug | 2024 Seizures | 2025 Seizures | Change |
|---|---|---|---|
| Methamphetamine | 1,214 grams | 2,910 grams | +140% |
| Fentanyl | 660 grams | 834 grams | +26% |
| Cocaine | 1,378 grams | 813 grams | -41% |
Overdose and fatalities:
| Year | Overdose Incidents | % Change | Fatal Overdoses | % Change |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 54 | — | 3 | — |
| 2024 | 97 | +80% | 8 | +167% |
| 2025* | 162 | +67% | 9** | +13% |
*As of Nov. 1, 2025
**Includes 4 cases pending coroner confirmation
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Media contact:
Sonya Gilks
Public Information Officer
Fredericton Police Force
Fpf.media@fredericton.ca
506-460-2777