Enforcement has been taking place on cannabis dispensaries on Okanagan Indian Band (OKIB) lands recently, but many remain open.

The Community Safety Unit (CSU) conducted enforcement activities at some of the many facilities along Westside Road near Vernon, on Tuesday, Oct. 29. There are at least 10 dispensaries along the stretch next to Okanagan Lake.

"Vernon North Okanagan RCMP officers were requested by the CSU and were present to assist with keeping the peace," said Const. Chris Terleski, media relations officer.

While some shops were closed Oct. 29, many were back open the following day, minus the main product on the shelves.

Garrett Parslow, manager of The Green House cannabis store on Westside Road, told The Morning Star that the CSU came to the store alongside the RCMP on Tuesday and seized all of his product. 

"They emptied my store," he said, adding the value of the product seized was about $130,000. 

He said he wasn't told why the product was being seized.

Despite the seizure, Parslow said the store is not shutting down. It was open on Wednesday, Oct. 30. 

Authorities have been tight-lipped on the details of the enforcement, but CSU is responsible for compliance and enforcement under the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act, with a focus on the illegal sale and production of cannabis.

Meanwhile OKIB chief and council met with the CSU in July at a meeting open to the public.

"Chief and council have asked the Provincial Community Safety Unit to assist in the enforcement of OKIB鈥檚 Cannabis Control Law," the meeting announcement reads.

"OKIB鈥檚 Cannabis Control Law was developed in consultation with community and reflects a balance that allows businesses to thrive while providing community members with peace of mind."

The Ministry of Public Safety and Solicitor General told The Morning Star it is unable to provide information or comment on any specifics regarding action taken by the CSU.

"CSU investigators carry out compliance and enforcement activities against unlicensed cannabis retailers and producers across the province, under the authority of the Cannabis Control and Licensing Act (CCLA)," the ministry said.

While some of the dispensary owners defend that the government does not have jurisdiction over OKIB, the ministry says the CCLA applies across B.C., including on lands governed by First Nations. 

"All along, the aim has been to achieve voluntary compliance; however, we have been very clear that CSU will employ a progressive enforcement approach against those who continue to operate without a licence," the ministry said. 

"Escalation of enforcement action is determined on a case-by-case basis and considers factors such as public safety, the integrity of the legal market, and partner and community concerns."