(OAKVILLE, ON) – In a significant blow to international drug trafficking, a joint forces investigation has led to the seizure of more than 11.5 kilograms of suspected cocaine and 123 kilograms of cannabis. This operation involved the Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), Peel Regional Police (PRP), Toronto Police Service (TPS), and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
The investigation began in February 2024, targeting a network involved in the import and export of illegal drugs. Two search warrants executed in May at the Port of Montreal resulted in the seizure of drugs valued at approximately $630,000.
On June 27, 2024, seven search warrants were executed in Niagara Falls, Oakville, Brampton, and Kitchener, leading to significant arrests. Darko Tambur, 37, of Niagara Falls, and Damir Dedic, 53, of Kitchener, face charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Cannabis Act, including trafficking and exportation.
Detailed Investigation and Arrests
- Initial Seizures: In May 2024, investigators seized 11.5 kilograms of suspected cocaine and 123 kilograms of illegal cannabis from shipping containers at the Port of Montreal.
- Street Value: The drugs have an estimated street value of $630,000.
- Further Searches: On June 27, search warrants in various Ontario cities resulted in the arrest of Tambur and an arrest warrant issued for Dedic.
Charges and Legal Proceedings
Tambur and Dedic face multiple charges:
- Trafficking Schedule I Substance
- Exporting Schedule I Substance
- Importing and Exporting Cannabis
Tambur has been released and is scheduled to appear in court on August 12, 2024, in Milton. An arrest warrant is out for Dedic.
Ongoing Investigations and Public Appeal
Authorities emphasize the importance of public cooperation in ongoing investigations. Anyone with information on suspicious cross-border activities is encouraged to contact the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.
Official Statements
OPP Detective Superintendent Lee Fulford, Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau: “This investigation shows the true value of collaboration with our provincial and national policing partners. Criminal networks continue to exploit our borders, and with partnerships such as the Border Enforcement Security Task Force, we can curb their importation and exportation attempts.”
Michael Prosia, Acting Regional Director General, Southern Ontario Region, CBSA: “The Canada Border Services Agency works closely with our law enforcement partners both within and across the border in the fight against drug trafficking. Our officers are steadfast in their commitment to protecting our communities and preventing illegal drugs from entering Canada.”
About the BEST
The Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) is led by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the United States Immigration and Customs Enforcement Agency (ICE). This multi-agency team includes members from the CBSA, OPP, and various international partners, focusing on identifying and dismantling organized crime with cross-border implications.
