Ottawa police drug unit has arrested two people and seized about 40 kilograms of cocaine and four kilograms of crack cocaine along with a large amount of bulk currency as part of a 10-month investigation named Project Top Shelf.
The wholesale value of the drugs is approximately $1.5 million dollars. The retail value of the drugs is estimated to be approximately $4.5 million dollars.
“This is a significant seizure and investigation that disrupts a criminal network operating in Ottawa and the province,” said Ottawa Police Chief Eric Stubbs. “I want to thank the investigators who took on this complex investigation and recognize the assistance provided to Project Top Shelf by the Toronto Police Service, OPP, RCMP, and the Canadian Border Services Agency.”
Che Esprit, 35, of Toronto has been charged with conspiracy to traffic a schedule 1 substance, two counts of trafficking cocaine/crack cocaine, possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000, failing to stop for police, and dangerous driving.
Adrian Esqualit-Ganzalez, 33, of Ottawa, has been charged with conspiracy to traffic a schedule 1 substance, two counts of trafficking cocaine/crack cocaine, and possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000.
The Ottawa Police drug seizure will have a significant impact on the drug trafficking market in Ottawa.
The investigation was launched in February of 2023 by the OPS Serious and Organized Crime Directorate and focused on a significant drug network operating in Ottawa and Toronto and was supported through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Criminal Intelligence Service of Ontario.
Drugs, currency and other offence related evidence were seized during the course of the Project; including a search of a residence on Miwate Private and during the arrests of the charged persons. Investigators continue to review evidence seized.
The Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit is tasked with reconciling the seizures of bulk currency and other offence related property.
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They appeared in Ottawa court Wednesday.
The Ottawa Police investigation is continuing and additional arrests and charges are anticipated.
If you suspect drug trafficking activities, please contact police or report it online.
Anonymous tips can be submitted by calling Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-8477 or at crimestoppers.ca.
contact@criminalsamongus.ca
