Sixteen Quebecers have been charged in connection with cocaine trafficking, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Federal Policing Eastern Region. “Proceeds from the sale of drugs were allegedly used to finance renovations to buildings linked to members of the alleged criminal organization, who are also believed to have operated an illegal gaming house in Montreal,” the force explains. The RCMP adds that six buildings “linked to members of the alleged criminal organization are subject to restraint orders.” The total value of the property seized, including 14 kg of cocaine and at least $145,000 in cash, is greater than $9 million. The RCMP confirms that the individuals charged are: “They face multiple charges, including trafficking cocaine, possession of cocaine for the purpose of trafficking, laundering proceeds of crime, possession of and trafficking in property obtained by crime, conspiracy, offences committed for the benefit of or at the direction of a criminal organization, and various offences under the Income Tax Act,” the RCMP states. An additional person was arrested on Tuesday morning, Corporal Martina Pillarova, spokesperson with the RCMP Federal Policing Eastern Region, told CTV News. One final suspect remains wanted abroad, the RCMP notes. The charges are the result of Project Chrome, an investigation that began in 2022 by the Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit (CFSEU) and the Money Laundering Investigative Team (MLIT), with assistance from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). The accused are expected to appear by videoconference at the Montreal courthouse on Tuesday. Anyone with information about illegal activities is encouraged to contact the RCMP at 514-939-8300 or 1-800-771-5401, or visit a local police department.
