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The recent dismantling of a large-scale narco-terror network by Peel Regional Police in Canada, dubbed Project Pelican, has exposed a complex web of international connections and illicit activities aimed at financing anti-India operations. The operation, which commenced in June 2024, culminated in the arrest of nine individuals, including seven of Indian origin residing in Canada, and the seizure of a staggering 479 kilograms of cocaine, the largest cocaine bust in Canadian history. This unprecedented seizure, valued at approximately $47.9 million, underscores the magnitude of the network's operations and the significant financial resources it commanded. The investigation revealed that the network exploited commercial trucking routes between the United States and Canada, establishing links with Mexican drug cartels and U.S.-based distributors to facilitate the transportation and distribution of narcotics. The arrested individuals, identified as Hao Tommy Huynh, Sajgith Yogendrarajah, Manpreet Singh, Philip Tep, Arvinder Powar, Karamjit Singh, Gurtej Singh, Sartaj Singh, and Shiv Onkar Singh, face a collective 35 charges related to firearms and drug trafficking, highlighting the severity of their alleged involvement in criminal activities. The seizures, which occurred between February and May 2025, included substantial amounts of cocaine at key border crossings such as the Ambassador Bridge in Windsor and the Blue Water Bridge in Point Edward, indicating the network's strategic use of these routes for smuggling purposes. Additionally, busts were conducted in the Greater Toronto Area, where some suspects were found in possession of loaded semi-automatic handguns, further emphasizing the dangerous nature of the organization and its willingness to employ violence to protect its illicit operations. The Peel Police confirmed that the seized cocaine, worth an estimated $47.9 million, along with the illegal firearms, represented a significant blow to the network's ability to operate effectively. The accused were subsequently held for a bail hearing at the Ontario Court of Justice in Brampton, signaling the beginning of the legal proceedings that will determine their fate. Beyond the immediate impact of the drug seizures and arrests, the investigation has uncovered a disturbing link between the proceeds of drug trafficking and the funding of anti-India activities. According to sources cited by the Times of India, the trafficked cocaine's profits were allegedly directed towards supporting Khalistani protests, referendums, weapons procurement, and other agendas aimed at undermining India's sovereignty and territorial integrity. This revelation raises serious concerns about the potential for narco-terrorism to destabilize regions and fuel extremism, highlighting the need for enhanced international cooperation to combat such threats.
The alleged involvement of Pakistan's Inter-Services Intelligence (ISI) in supporting the network adds another layer of complexity to the situation. Intelligence sources cited in the ToI report suggested that this was part of a broader ISI-backed initiative, which also involves the trafficking of Afghan heroin to bolster extremist networks. The ISI's alleged support for such activities raises concerns about its role in promoting instability and fueling terrorism in the region. The convergence of drug trafficking, terrorism, and political extremism represents a significant challenge to national security and requires a comprehensive and coordinated response from law enforcement and intelligence agencies. The investigation into Project Pelican has not only disrupted a major narco-terror network but has also shed light on the intricate connections between drug trafficking, terrorism financing, and political extremism. The operation's success underscores the importance of international cooperation and intelligence sharing in combating transnational criminal organizations. The Peel Regional Police's efforts to dismantle this network serve as a testament to the dedication and professionalism of law enforcement agencies in protecting communities from the dangers of drug trafficking and terrorism. However, the challenges posed by such networks are multifaceted and require a sustained and coordinated effort to address the underlying causes of drug trafficking, terrorism financing, and political extremism. The investigation into Project Pelican has revealed the network's reliance on commercial trucking routes between the United States and Canada, highlighting the vulnerability of these routes to exploitation by criminal organizations. The network's links with Mexican drug cartels and U.S.-based distributors demonstrate the importance of cross-border cooperation in disrupting drug trafficking operations. The arrest of nine individuals, including seven of Indian origin residing in Canada, underscores the diversity of individuals involved in such networks and the need for vigilance in identifying and apprehending those who seek to profit from illicit activities. The seizures of cocaine and firearms in various locations, including border crossings and the Greater Toronto Area, highlight the network's widespread operations and its ability to adapt to changing circumstances. The link between the proceeds of drug trafficking and the funding of anti-India activities raises serious concerns about the potential for such activities to destabilize regions and fuel extremism.
The alleged involvement of the ISI in supporting the network further underscores the complex geopolitical dynamics at play and the need for a comprehensive and coordinated response to address the underlying causes of drug trafficking, terrorism financing, and political extremism. The case of Project Pelican serves as a reminder of the interconnectedness of global security threats and the importance of international cooperation in combating transnational criminal organizations. The dismantling of this network represents a significant victory for law enforcement agencies, but it also highlights the ongoing challenges posed by drug trafficking, terrorism, and political extremism. The need for sustained efforts to address these challenges is paramount to protecting communities and ensuring national security. Further investigation into the network's operations and its connections to other criminal organizations is essential to fully understand the scope of its activities and to prevent future occurrences. The cooperation of law enforcement agencies in Canada, the United States, and other countries is crucial to effectively combating transnational criminal organizations and disrupting their ability to operate. The success of Project Pelican demonstrates the effectiveness of intelligence-led policing and the importance of investing in resources and training to equip law enforcement agencies with the tools they need to combat drug trafficking, terrorism financing, and political extremism. The investigation into Project Pelican has also raised important questions about the role of social media and other online platforms in facilitating the activities of criminal organizations. The network's use of technology to communicate, coordinate, and recruit members underscores the need for enhanced monitoring and regulation of online platforms to prevent their misuse for illicit purposes. The investigation into Project Pelican has also highlighted the importance of addressing the root causes of drug trafficking, terrorism, and political extremism. Poverty, inequality, and lack of opportunity can create an environment in which individuals are vulnerable to recruitment by criminal organizations. Addressing these underlying issues is essential to preventing the emergence of new narco-terror networks and promoting long-term stability and security.