The Manitoba RCMP say approximately $1.5 million in illicit drugs and cash has been seized following a three-month investigation into high-level drug trafficking in the province.
The investigation, dubbed Project Deepwater, was led by the Manitoba Integrated Law Enforcement Team (MILET). Using a range of investigative techniques, officers uncovered an interprovincial drug trafficking network operating in Winnipeg.
Police said the investigation revealed the suspect was distributing large quantities of cocaine to support trafficking activities in communities throughout Manitoba.
On Feb. 5, MILET executed search warrants at two residential addresses in Winnipeg’s Amber Gates neighbourhood with assistance from the Winnipeg Police Service Tactical Support Team, the Selkirk General Investigation Section and the RCMP Roving Traffic Unit.
Inside the homes, investigators located approximately 7,000 counterfeit pills disguised as over-the-counter pain medication. Laboratory analysis later determined the pills contained a mixture of heroin and medetomidine, a veterinary sedative that creates a potent and dangerous drug combination and increases the risk for users.
In addition to the pills, officers seized nine kilograms of cocaine, four kilograms of illicit marijuana, 28 grams of crack cocaine, $87,000 in cash and trafficking paraphernalia, including a money counter and a large processing press.
“Project Deepwater has significantly impacted the work of an interprovincial network operating in this province and stopped very dangerous drugs from reaching our communities,” said RCMP Assistant Commissioner Scott McMurchy, commanding officer of the Manitoba RCMP.
“These efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to protecting the safety and security of all Manitobans.”
Anthony Tran, 35, of Winnipeg has been charged with two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000.
Tran was remanded into custody. His next court appearance is scheduled for March 26 in Winnipeg.
The investigation continues.
