Toronto Police Service
News Release
Early morning raids, 22 search warrants executed in the GTA, 21 people arrested, Update, Statement from Deputy Chief Tony Warr
Wednesday, June 4, 2008 - 4:40 PM
Specialized Operations Command
416-808-7100
The following is from Deputy Chief Tony Warr:
During the spring of 2008, investigators from the Integrated Gun & Gang Task Force started a focused investigation into the distribution of controlled drugs, firearms, and acts of violence surrounding a group of men in the northwest area of Toronto and surrounding region.
As a result, investigators identified numerous persons involved, and addresses allegedly used to facilitate the distribution of illicit drugs and weapons.
Some of the persons identified are believed to be members of the organized criminal street gang known as “MS-13.” Some are associated with the gang through their distribution of drugs and weapons. The focus of the enforcement action was on the offences surrounding the firearms and the distribution of drugs that were affecting community safety.
Today, in a joint operation, the Toronto Police Service Integrated Gun & Gang Task Force and the Halton Regional Police Service, assisted by other Organized Crime Enforcement units, the Drug Squad, TAVIS Rapid Response Teams, 23 Division, 31 Division, and the Emergency Task Force, executed 22 search warrants in residences, and several more on related vehicles. There were four warrants executed in Peel region, one in York region and the remainder in Toronto.
At present, 21 people have been arrested. The investigation is continuing.
Investigators have seized large quantities of cocaine, related firearms, other prohibited weapons, and a significant amount of cash related to proceeds of crime. As well, investigators have seized paraphernalia associated with the drug distribution network. The seizures are matters of evidentiary concern, and are being investigated and processed accordingly. The total number of charges is increasing as the seized evidence is assessed.
I’m sure you understand why, as the investigation is ongoing, there is much I cannot say. I will not do or say anything which might affect the safety of the officers or the public.
There will be a news conference, at headquarters, at 10 a.m., tomorrow, in which we will be able to provide a complete summary of today’s events, including arrests, charges and the property seized.
Constable Wendy Drummond, Public Information, for Deputy Chief Tony Warr, Special Operations Command
There are no files attached to this release.
See also:
Canadian Refugee Board Gives MS-13 Member Asylum BECAUSE He’s A Gang Member
MS-13 - Ultra-violent Hispanic gang establishing itself in Canada
Notorious MS-13 gang setting up shop in Canada. You just gotta love our country's growing diversity.
