News
Police dismantle drug trafficking ring in the Golden Horseshoe

July 18, 2024, Hamilton, Ont. – An RCMP-led unit has dismantled a well-organized group that has been responsible for distributing dangerous narcotics in the Hamilton, Caledonia and Niagara regions. Cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and other drugs were allegedly being trafficked by this organization in the Golden Horseshoe area of Ontario.

The RCMP’s Golden Horseshoe Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) launched an investigation in 2023 after uncovering evidence of a sophisticated drug trafficking network in the area. Arrests and warrants were executed in three rounds, starting in April 2024.

Police seized large quantities of crystal methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and prescription pills. Police also seized multiple firearms, ammunition, ballistic vests, Canadian currency, and other items believed to be used to aid in the trafficking of high levels of narcotics. On top of that, several kilograms of suspicious substances have been sent to the lab to be tested for suspected narcotics.

“Organized crime groups use proceeds of drug trafficking to fund further criminal activity. These arrests make a positive impact for our community by closing off what had been a profitable operation that supported organized crime in southern Ontario,” said RCMP Insp. Henry Tillo, Officer-in-Charge, Golden Horseshoe CFSEU.

Following the third round of warrants in late June, there are now 19 individuals who face charges for their involvement in this criminal operation.

All of these warrants/arrests were executed with the assistance of multiple tactical teams, including Hamilton Police (ERU), RCMP (ERT), Niagara Regional Police (ETU), Halton Regional Police (TRU), Waterloo Regional Police (ERU), and OPP (TRU). The Biker Enforcement Unit (OPP) and the Hamilton Police Major Drugs and Gang Unit provided further assistance.