Canadian Authorities Uncover Massive Narco-Terror Operation
In a major breakthrough, Canadian law enforcement has dismantled a sophisticated drug trafficking network, linked to Khalistan sympathizers and illicit anti-India funding activities. The probe, dubbed Project Pelican, culminated in the seizure of an astonishing 479 kilograms of cocaine—estimated at $47.9 million—and the arrest of nine suspects, seven of whom are of Indian origin residing in Canada.
How the Network Operated: The Routes and Alliances
The investigation revealed a well-coordinated system exploiting commercial trucking routes between the United States and Canada. The network reportedly collaborated with Mexican drug cartels and distributors based in the U.S. Their criminal activities also involved trafficking Afghan heroin, facilitated by illegal poppy cultivation supported by external intelligence agencies.
Authorities confirmed that the profits from these narcotics were funneled to finance anti-India movements, including protests, referendums, and weapons procurement, underscoring the transnational reach of the operation.
ISI-Backed Operations and the Role of Afghan Heroin
Intelligence sources pointed to an ISI-backed agenda wherein Khalistani groups in Canada are funded through the trafficking of high-value Mexican cocaine. The ISI is also implicated in promoting Afghan heroin exports, believed to aid Taliban efforts against U.S. and Afghan forces.
Details of the Arrests and Charges
- Sajgith Yogendrarajah, 31, Toronto
- Manpreet Singh, 44, Brampton
- Philip Tep, 39, Hamilton
- Arvinder Powar, 29, Brampton
- Karamjit Singh, 36, Caledon
- Gurtej Singh, 36, Caledon
- Sartaj Singh, 27, Cambridge
- Shiv Onkar Singh, 31, Georgetown
- Hao Tommy Huynh, 27, Mississauga
These individuals face a combined total of 35 charges, including drug trafficking and illegal firearm possession, following raids that yielded loaded semi-automatic handguns in addition to narcotics.
Tracing the Origins: How the Investigation Unfolded
The investigation commenced in June 2024, triggered by a U.S. discovery of over 1,000 pounds of cocaine in a truck driven by two Canadian nationals of Indian descent. This incident alerted authorities to a wider smuggling ring with evident links to external intelligence operations supporting illicit poppy cultivation in Afghanistan and drug trafficking.
By November 2024, cross-border collaboration involving the Canada Border Services Agency and the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration helped identify multiple individuals, trucking companies, and storage facilities implicated in the operation.
Between February and May 2025, significant seizures occurred at key border points, such as:
- 127 kg of cocaine confiscated at Windsor's Ambassador Bridge
- 50 kg seized at Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward
- Additional arrests and confiscations throughout Greater Toronto Area
Official Statements and Community Impact
Ontario's Solicitor General, Michael S Kerzner, lauded the success of Project Pelican, emphasizing the critical role of resources and inter-agency coordination in safeguarding communities. "This operation underscores what is achievable when police have adequate tools to fight organized crime and protect public safety," he remarked.
Conclusion: A Win Against Narco-Terrorism and Organized Crime
Project Pelican marks a significant victory in disrupting narcotics networks that finance extremist activities abroad. The comprehensive approach—spanning surveillance, intelligence sharing, and strategic seizures—shows a determined effort by Canadian and U.S. authorities to cut off the financial lifelines fueling transnational crime and terrorism.
