Toronto Bust Uncovers Massive Cocaine Haul Tied to Infamous Cartel

Toronto police seize $83 million worth of cocaine linked to Mexican cartel in record-breaking bust.

Quick Takes

Toronto police seized 835 kilograms of cocaine valued at $83 million in the largest bust in the force’s history.
The operation, named Project Castillo, targeted the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel from Mexico.
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 between Toronto Police, Canada Border Services Agency, and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.

Record-Breaking Cocaine Seizure Linked to Mexican Cartel

Toronto police have dealt a significant blow to international drug trafficking networks with the largest cocaine seizure in the force’s history. The operation, dubbed Project Castillo, resulted in the confiscation of 835 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $83 million. This massive haul has been linked to the notorious Jalisco New Generation Cartel, a Mexican criminal organization known for its violent tactics and extensive drug trafficking operations.

The investigation began after authorities received a tip about cocaine distribution in the Greater Toronto Area. Through extensive collaboration between local and federal agencies, including the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), law enforcement was able to track and intercept multiple shipments of the illicit substance.

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

Cross-Border Smuggling Operation Uncovered

The cocaine was smuggled through multiple countries, including Mexico and the United States, before reaching Canada. The largest single seizure, totaling 475 kilograms, was discovered in a truck that crossed the Canada-U.S. border. This revelation has sparked discussions about the need for improved security protocols and increased international cooperation to combat drug trafficking.

“We know that these drugs traveled all the way from Mexico over the United States southern border and then made their way to Canada where we stopped and seized them,” Toronto police service chief Myron Demkiw said during a press conference. “I can tell you that getting 835 kilograms off of the street will make a huge difference in the well-being of our communities.”

The successful operation highlights the ongoing challenges faced by law enforcement agencies in combating the flow of illegal drugs across international borders. It also underscores the importance of intelligence sharing and coordinated efforts between countries to disrupt these criminal networks effectively.

Impact on Drug Market and Criminal Networks

The seizure of such a substantial quantity of cocaine is expected to have far-reaching consequences for drug distribution networks and related criminal activities. Organized Crime Enforcement Superintendent Paul MacIntrye emphasized the significance of the bust, stating, “By removing over 835 kilograms of cocaine from circulation, we have disrupted the supply and created a ripple effect following this seizure.” “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 increase is a clear indicator of the operation’s success in disrupting the illegal drug market. It not only makes cocaine less accessible but also potentially reduces drug-related crimes and associated violence in communities across Canada.

Arrests and Ongoing Investigations

As a result of Project Castillo, six suspects have been taken into custody, 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 demonstrate the extensive nature of the drug trafficking network and the international scope of the investigation.

The Canadian federal government has increased its efforts to counter the illicit drug flow across the Canada-U.S. border, investing $1.3 billion in related agencies. This move is partly in response to potential U.S. tariffs over concerns about drugs and illegal immigration. TPS Chief Demkiw has emphasized the ongoing focus on cross-border illicit drug trade and illegal firearms, highlighting the need for continued vigilance and cooperation between law enforcement agencies.