An RCMP-led investigation into a massive cocaine importation ring has resulted in numerous arrests — including a Leamington man.
Philip Boutrous, 42, of Leamington, was among a dozen people arrested after law enforcement agencies seized 38.5 kilograms of cocaine in a series of raids.
The estimated street value of the uncovered drugs is more than $1.5 million.
The joint police investigation — entitled Project Owing — began last year and involved the Kitchener detachment of RCMP, Waterloo regional police, the Canada Border Services Agency, U.S. Homeland Security, and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration.
Fourteen search warrants were executed this week, mostly in the Kitchener-Waterloo area, but also in Toronto and Leamington.
Police allege that the illegal operation smuggled drugs into Canada from the U.S. via commercial motor vehicles.
Those arrested so far were allegedly involved in “the logistical side of the importation, arranging for the transportation of the cocaine … by hiding it in loads of legitimate cargo,” RCMP said.
The Leamington man and other accused from Kitchener and Cambridge face charges that include importation of a controlled substance and conspiring to import a controlled substance.
Police said their investigation continues and more charges are anticipated.
