Toronto police have conducted the largest drug bust in the service’s history, seizing $83 million worth of cocaine in a months-long investigation linked to a violent Mexican drug cartel. The operation, named Project Castillo, resulted in the confiscation of 835 kilograms of cocaine and the arrest of six individuals in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA).
Authorities revealed details of the extensive investigation during a Tuesday news conference, describing it as a collaborative effort involving Toronto police, York Regional Police, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and Windsor border officials. The arrested suspects include two Mexican nationals and four Canadians, while arrest warrants have been issued for three additional individuals. One of the suspects, 60-year-old Niagara Falls resident Ryan Nolin, is believed to still be in Canada.
Chief Myron Demkiw emphasized the significance of the operation, stating, “Taking these drugs off our streets prevents violence, protects lives, and dismantles dangerous criminal networks. This impact is only possible through the dedication of our members and the invaluable collaboration of our partners.”
A significant portion of the drugs—approximately 475 kilograms—was seized at the border from a truck that traveled from Mexico through the United States before entering Canada. The investigation began in August when authorities received information about cocaine distribution in the GTA and discovered an attempt to transport the drugs via a shipping company. Subsequent search warrants uncovered additional stash houses and led to multiple arrests.
Supt. Paul MacIntyre of the Organized Crime Enforcement unit confirmed that the operation is tied to the Jalisco New Generation Cartel, a notorious and violent organization based in Mexico. While acknowledging the cartel’s continued activity, he noted, “We believe this bust has dealt them a significant blow.”
Police have described the arrested individuals as high-level distributors and believe the seizure has disrupted a major drug trafficking network in the region.