Project Pelican Uncovers Major Cocaine Smuggling Network in Canada
Canadian authorities have arrested nine men, seven of whom are of Indian origin, in Ontario as part of a sweeping crackdown on a cocaine smuggling ring operating between the US and Canada. The operation, known as Project Pelican, culminated in the seizure of 479 kilograms of cocaine valued at approximately $48 million CAD.
How the Drug Trail Unfolded
Law enforcement agencies revealed that the smuggling network exploited commercial trucking routes to ferry narcotics across the border, targeting the Greater Toronto Area (GTA). The Peel Regional Police led the year-long investigation starting from June 2024, partnering with multiple agencies including the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), US Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), and US Homeland Security.
Investigators discovered the drug distribution chain had ties to Mexican cartels and US-based distributors. Disturbingly, the network was also linked to anti-India activities with connections to Khalistani factions.
Seizures and Arrests: A Closer Look
- Between February and May 2025, key interceptions took place at major border crossings:
- At the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor, authorities confiscated 127 kg of cocaine hidden in a commercial trailer, arresting the truck driver.
- At the Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward, another 50 kg shipment was seized with the apprehension of a second driver.
- Additional seizures in the GTA uncovered individuals in possession of loaded firearms, highlighting the dangerous nature of the operation.
Profiles of the Accused
By June 6, law enforcement had charged the nine suspects with a total of 35 counts spanning firearm and drug-related offenses. The accused include:
- 27-year-old Hao Tommy Huynh (Mississauga)
- 39-year-old Philip Tep (Hamilton)
- 31-year-old Sajgith Yogendrarajah (Toronto)
- 44-year-old Manpreet Singh (Brampton)
- 29-year-old Arvinder Powar (Brampton)
- 36-year-old Karamjit Singh (Caledon)
- 36-year-old Gurtej Singh (Caledon)
- 27-year-old Sartaj Singh (Cambridge)
- 31-year-old Shiv Onkar Sing (Georgetown)
The accused appeared for bail hearings at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton.
Canada’s Ongoing Battle Against Drug Trafficking
This arrest sweep forms part of broader Canadian efforts to stymie transnational drug operations amid heightened tensions over cross-border smuggling with the United States. The US government, under previous administrations, has exerted pressure on Canada, China, and Mexico over the influx of fentanyl and other illicit substances.
Earlier in 2025, Project Castillo led to the seizure of 835 kilograms of cocaine valued at $83 million destined for Toronto and its environs. Besides, Canadian authorities dismantled significant drug labs and arrested key players with Indian-origin identities, signaling the transnational complexity of these criminal networks.
Looking Ahead
As Project Pelican shines a light on these deeply entrenched smuggling operations, authorities vow to continue disrupting illegal drug flows that threaten public safety across Canada and its neighbors.
