Major Drug Bust in Canada: 21 Arrested, Including 13 Punjabis, in Cross-Border Smuggling Probe

Canadian authorities have seized approximately 1.7 tonnes of suspected narcotics in a major operation targeting cross-border drug trafficking. The estimated value of the seized drugs exceeds C$139 million. A total of 21 people have been arrested in connection with the case, including 13 individuals of Indian origin, all reported to be Punjabis. According to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the year-long investigation, known as Project Bay, uncovered an alleged drug trafficking network operating across the Canada-U.S. border. During the investigation, authorities seized cocaine, methamphetamine, and opium. Officials described the operation as one of the largest drug seizures ever made during a single investigation in Ontario. The investigation began in January 2025 with the Windsor Police Service. It was later expanded with the participation of the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and U.S. agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA). Investigators allege that the network operated through a broker-style system within the commercial transportation industry. Under the alleged scheme, drivers were recruited to conceal narcotics inside legitimate commercial shipments crossing the Canada-U.S. border. Authorities said investigations are continuing to identify other individuals and possible associates linked to the network. Officials stated that the operation has dealt a significant blow to Ontario's illegal drug trade. In addition, the Ontario Provincial Police's Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit has initiated the process of identifying and seizing assets allegedly connected to the suspected criminal activities. Among those accused are Gagandeep Thindal (27), Simranjit Singh (32), Jatinderpal Singh (39), Jaswinder Sohi (55), Tejwinder Sandhu (29), Tarminder Singh (19), Gundeep Tariwal (32), Mahikpreet Singh (24), and Karandeep Singh (27), all from Brampton. The accused also include Kanwarpal Kular of LaSalle, Harjwinder Sandhu of Kitchener, Haninderpal Grewal of Barrie, and Avtar Sahota of Shelburne. Authorities said that 102 charges have been filed against the 21 accused under the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.