Major Drug Network Dismantled in Inter-Provincial Operation

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Major Drug Network Dismantled in Inter-Provincial Operation

May 1, 2024

In a significant victory against organized crime, the Winnipeg Police Service’s (WPS) Organized Crime Unit has successfully concluded a large-scale investigation, codenamed Project Soft Landing. The operation targeted a high-level inter-provincial drug network believed to have trafficked millions of dollars worth of illicit drugs and firearms from the Greater Toronto Area into Winnipeg.

The criminal network reportedly used couriers, railways, and bus lines to smuggle drugs and guns into Winnipeg. The investigation, which began in May 2023, was made possible due to the assistance of multiple police services and agencies, including the Public Prosecution Service of Canada, Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Center of Canada (FINTRAC), and various local police services across Canada.

On March 6, 2024, law enforcement executed twenty-two Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) search warrants across Manitoba, Ontario, and British Columbia. The raids resulted in the seizure of $1.7 million in Canadian currency, approximately 30 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $3 million, four handguns (including two 3D printed guns), a sub-machine gun with a suppressor, loaded magazines and ammunition, 75 kilograms of cutting agent, a hydraulic cocaine press/moulds, and 12 vehicles, including a Rolls Royce valued at $450,000. Three of these vehicles were found to have custom-made concealment compartments. A Harley Davidson motorcycle and approximately $4 million in proceeds of crime, including jewellery, vehicles, and merchandise, were also seized.

As a result of Project Soft Landing, numerous individuals were arrested. While some may face charges at a later date, fourteen individuals have been formally charged with offences related to organized crime, drug trafficking, possession of firearms, proceeds of crimes, and laundering proceeds of crime. The accused include residents of Winnipeg, Vancouver, Hamilton, Burlington, and Toronto.

The WPS Organized Crime Unit has expressed its gratitude for the support provided by inter-provincial law enforcement and government agencies during this investigation. This operation marks a significant step in the ongoing fight against organized crime and drug trafficking in Canada.