Peel police have arrested 29 people in connection with a $5.8-million drug investigation which spanned Toronto and several surrounding cities.
Through their investigation, code-named "Operation Nexus," police say they were able to prevent kidnappings associated with the trafficking of ketamine, cocaine, ecstasy and marijuana. Heavily armed officers stood in the background as police displayed the seized narcotics.
Ketamine was the biggest catch. Police say they seized 104 kilograms, with a street value of $5.2 million. The drug can produce a hallucinogenic effect.
Police say they also seized about 3.5 kg of cocaine worth more than $300,000.
A cache of weapons and ammunition were also seized, including a submachine gun and Tasers.
Police said Thursday they confiscated a kidnapping kit used to intimidate witnesses and rivals. It consisted of duct tape, plastic flex ties, rope and tuques, they said.
Three luxury vehicles and more than $100,000 in cash were also seized.
In June, Peel Police arrested nine Toronto residents ranging in age between 31 and 43. The suspects were charged with drug and property-related offences.
In July, 20 more people, including a 16-year-old from Vaughan, were charged with drug, firearm and property-related offences.
Three suspects, including a British Columbia resident, were also charged in connection with a planned kidnapping, police said.
The drugs appear to have entered Canada through Pearson International Airport where border agents say they are rarely surprised by the creativity of drug smugglers.
"We've seen it in foot spas. We've seen it in coconuts, bales -- anything that's wide open to your imagination," Canadian Border Services Agency Jerry Jesso told CTV.
Staff Insp. Mario Di Tomasso said the criminals try to either coerce airport employees or try to infiltrate the facility in order to expand their smuggling activity.
Those arrested are expected to appear in a Newmarket court in the future.
The investigation included police from Peel, York, Toronto and the Canada Border Services Agency.
Police are looking for two more suspects.
Malvin Lopez, 30, of no fixed address is wanted for numerous drug and firearm-related charges. Police describe Lopez as Asian, 5'7" with a medium build and short dark hair.
Waseem Iqbal, 37, of Mississauga is also being sought. He is described as South Asian, 5'9" with a heavy build and short dark hair. He speaks with a South Asian accent.
Police are asking for the public's assistance in locating a meth lab in the Mississauga area. Anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
With a report from CTV Toronto's John Musselman
