A 13-month long investigation has resulted in the Waterloo Regional Police Service seizing over $9 million in drugs and more than $800,000 in currency from residences in Kitchener.
A suspected 86 kilograms of cocaine, over three kilograms of crystal methamphetamine and 700 grams of MDMA were among the drugs seized. Approximately $815,000 and seven restricted firearms were also found as part of the organized crime drug trafficking investigation.
A 31-year-old male and a 22-year-old female from Kitchener were arrested on April 26, 2024 and have been jointly charged with two counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of proceeds of crime.
The male is also facing three additional counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking.
Both accused were held in police custody for a bail hearing.
The seizure is one of the largest in WRPS history.
"This investigation, which was conducted over a 13 month period, focused on an organized crime drug trafficking within our community," Inspector Greg Hibbard, who leads the criminal intelligence unit, said.
"It began in March of 2023 after patrol officers responded to a break-and-enter at a Kitchener residence and located several kilograms of cocaine inside."
The Drugs and Firearms unit then began an organized crime drug trafficking investigation that resulted in multiple search warrants being conducted at two Kitchener residences.
"These drugs were destined to be sold in our community and beyond," Hibbard said.
"We're focused on interrupting the flow of illicit drugs and on arresting those who profit on the most vulnerable members of this community who are suffering from addiction."
It was not confirmed if any of the illegal activity was linked to Cambridge specifically.
In 2023, 695 firearms and prohibited weapons and over $2.72 million worth of drugs were seized.
"The Waterloo Regional Police Service continues to work in close coordination with other police services across Ontario to focus and collaborate on strategies related to drug trafficking, weapons and organized crime to help protect our community," Hibbard said.
"If you have any information about criminal activity or notice any suspicious activity, we urge you to come forward and report it."
The investigation is ongoing and additional arrests are anticipated.
