Six People Arrested in Project Barbell Firearms Trafficking Investigation, 260 Criminal Charges laid
Toronto, Ontario – Today, Police Chief James Ramer was joined by Superintendent Steve Watts of Organized Crime Enforcement to announce the results of Project Barbell, an eight-month long firearm trafficking investigation that has resulted in multiple arrests and guns seized.
In the fall of 2021, members of the TPS Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force launched an extensive investigation into an armed criminal group suspected of firearms trafficking in Toronto. On May 28, 2022, officers conducted Criminal Code Search Warrants for addresses and vehicles associated with the involved parties, resulting in six arrests, 260 criminal charges laid, and evidence seized, including 62 firearms.
In addition to the firearm investigation, one of the individuals arrested has also been identified as a suspect in a reckless shooting incident that occurred in a crowded bar on October 19, 2021, in the Queen Street West and Portland Street area.
“Gun violence continues to be the most significant public safety concern for the people of Toronto. Every one of these guns was destined for our streets; our communities,” said Chief James Ramer. “Toronto Police remain fully committed to working with our partner agencies, and all levels of government, on prevention and addressing root causes for those who are at-risk. But let me be clear, we are equally committed to targeting those who are high-risk; those who choose to carry and to use illegal guns in our neighborhoods.”
https://www.canadapolicereport.ca/2022/12/05/six-people-arrested-in-project-barbell-a-firearms-trafficking-investigation-260-criminal-charges-laid-2022/