Toronto Crime Crackdown: Massive Cocaine Seizure Uncovered in Major Operation

Bags of white powder with scissors in cardboard box.

Toronto police seize 835 kilograms of cocaine worth $83 million in historic bust linked to Mexican cartel, causing ripple effects across North America.

Key Takeaways

Toronto police conducted the largest cocaine seizure in the force’s history, seizing 835 kilograms valued at $83 million.
The operation, dubbed “Project Castillo,” targeted the notorious Mexican Jalisco New Generation Cartel.
Six suspects are in custody, with arrest warrants issued for three additional individuals.
The seizure has caused a 20% increase in the street price of cocaine in Canada.
The operation involved collaboration with federal agencies and highlights the need for continued cross-border cooperation.

Massive Drug Bust Exposes International Trafficking Network

In a stunning demonstration of law enforcement prowess, Toronto police have executed the largest cocaine seizure in the force’s history. The operation, named “Project Castillo,” resulted in the confiscation of 835 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $83 million. This monumental bust has dealt a significant blow to the operations of the Mexican Jalisco New Generation Cartel, a notorious criminal organization known for its violent tactics and extensive drug trafficking network.

The investigation, which began after a tip-off about cocaine distribution in the Greater Toronto Area, uncovered a sophisticated smuggling operation that transported the drugs through multiple countries. The largest single seizure, a staggering 475 kilograms, was discovered in a truck that had crossed the Canada-U.S. border. This revelation underscores the critical importance of border security and international cooperation in combating drug trafficking.

Looks like WE need to protect our border from drugs and crime coming INTO Canada from the U.S. not the other way around. https://t.co/79hQcTARHv

— Martin Pelletier (@MPelletierCIO) January 22, 2025

Impact on Drug Markets and Criminal Networks

The repercussions of this massive seizure have been felt immediately in the illicit drug market. Toronto Police Organized Crime Enforcement Superintendent Paul MacIntyre reported a significant disruption to the drug supply chain, stating, “Following this seizure, the street price of cocaine in Canada has increased by 20 per cent, signalling a direct impact on the distribution networks.” This price surge demonstrates the effectiveness of large-scale drug interdiction efforts in destabilizing criminal enterprises. “Seizures like this weaken the financial powers of criminal organizations and disrupt their operations,” he said.

The operation has resulted in the arrest of six suspects, including Mexican nationals and residents from Markham, Mississauga, and Toronto. Additionally, arrest warrants have been issued for three more individuals, two from Mexico and one from Niagara Falls, Ontario. These arrests highlight the transnational nature of modern drug trafficking operations and the need for coordinated law enforcement efforts across borders.

Cross-Border Cooperation and Future Challenges

The success of Project Castillo was made possible through close collaboration between Toronto police and federal agencies, including the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). This partnership exemplifies the importance of inter-agency cooperation in tackling complex, international criminal networks.

In response to the growing threat of cross-border drug trafficking, the Canadian federal government has increased its investment in border security. A substantial $1.3 billion has been allocated to relevant agencies to counter the flow of illicit drugs across the Canada-U.S. border. This move is partly motivated by potential U.S. tariffs over concerns about drugs and illegal immigration, highlighting the complex geopolitical dimensions of the drug trade.

As law enforcement agencies celebrate this significant victory, they remain vigilant about the ongoing challenges posed by international drug cartels. Toronto Police Service Chief Myron Demkiw emphasized the continued focus on cross-border illicit drug trade and illegal firearms, acknowledging the persistent nature of these criminal enterprises.