Calgary ( Rajeev Sharma): A major multi-year investigation led by the Winnipeg Police Service with support from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and police agencies across the country has resulted in dozens of arrests, hundreds of criminal charges, and the seizure of large quantities of illicit drugs connected to organized crime operations spanning multiple provinces.
According to police, the investigation uncovered an interprovincial drug trafficking network moving illicit substances from the United States into Canada. Authorities say Alberta was being used as a key storage and transit point before drugs were distributed into Manitoba and other regions.
The Alberta RCMP’s Parkland Drug Unit played a significant role in the investigation through intelligence gathering and coordination with national law enforcement partners. Information shared by Parkland RCMP contributed to a major seizure by the Winnipeg Police Service in spring 2025 involving approximately 53 kilograms of methamphetamine and 5 kilograms of fentanyl.
Police say intelligence sharing and coordinated enforcement efforts also led to related investigations and actions in Alberta, Manitoba, and Ontario.
Earlier this year, Alberta RCMP officers in Parkland also partnered with the Edmonton Police Service in another major investigation that resulted in the seizure of approximately 80 kilograms of cocaine in Edmonton.
Overall, investigators involved in the Winnipeg-led operation reported:
- 33 arrests
- More than 170 criminal charges
- Seizure of approximately 339 kilograms of methamphetamine
- Seizure of approximately 175 kilograms of cocaine
- Seizure of approximately 11 kilograms of fentanyl
- Recovery of 14 firearms, cash, and illegal tobacco products
In a statement, Alberta RCMP said the investigation highlights the importance of coordinated policing efforts and intelligence sharing between agencies across Canada.
“Organized crime networks do not operate within one jurisdiction, and neither can law enforcement,” Alberta RCMP stated. “Through strong partnerships and collaborative investigations, police agencies across Canada are working together to disrupt drug trafficking operations, remove dangerous substances from our communities, and enhance public safety.”
RCMP officials added that the success of the investigation demonstrates the value of national cooperation in targeting organized crime groups involved in the trafficking of methamphetamine, cocaine, fentanyl, and illegal firearms.
Police continue to encourage the public to report suspicious activity related to drug trafficking and organized crime in their communities.
