Items seized during a major drugs and weapons bust are shown during a police news conference in Winnipeg on Wednesday, May 20, 2026. (WPS / FACEBOOK)
A two-year investigation by Winnipeg police has resulted in 33 arrests and the dismantling of a large-scale drug trafficking network with ties to some of Canada’s most notorious criminal organizations.
Police launched the probe in May 2024 after identifying a network importing significant quantities of cocaine, methamphetamine, and fentanyl into Winnipeg for distribution across Manitoba and Northwestern Ontario. Investigators linked the organization to the Hells Angels, Wolfpack Alliance, and the Mexican Cartel.
The investigation found that drugs were sourced from a national-level supplier and smuggled into Canada from the United States via commercial vehicles, then warehoused in Alberta and Ontario before being moved into Manitoba through mail, couriers, commercial transport, and private vehicles fitted with hidden compartments.
The operation concluded in March 2026, resulting in 174 charges related to drug trafficking, proceeds of crime, and conspiracy. Seized in the investigation were more than $37.2 million in illicit drugs at estimated street value, 14 firearms, approximately $825,000 in cash, and 1.35 million illegal cigarettes.
Drug seizures included 339 kg of methamphetamine, 175 kg of cocaine, and 11.25 kg of fentanyl, along with an undisclosed quantity of pills, cannabis, and cannabis derivatives. Firearms recovered included 12 handguns, one carbine, and one shotgun, along with seven vehicles.
“We all see the crippling impact of the drug trade on a daily basis,” Cam Mackid, deputy chief of the Winnipeg Police Service, said.
“Homicides, gun and gang violence, counter-exploitation, property crime, retail theft. All of these crime categories are directly impacted by the drug trade.”
The interprovincial investigation involved more than a dozen partner agencies, including the RCMP, Edmonton Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police, Brandon Police Service, Winkler Police Service, Morden Police Service, Combined Forces Special Enforcement Unit, and the Manitoba Criminal Intelligence Centre, among others.
Nearly 30 Manitobans were charged as part of the investigation, while three others from Ontario and an Alberta woman were charged.
Outstanding warrants remain for Randy Chao and Tyler DeFelice, of Brantford, Ontario.
Watch Wednesday’s news conference:
— With files from The Canadian Press
