Peel Regional Police have conducted their largest illegal firearms bust, seizing 71 guns destined for violent crimes like home invasions and carjackings across Mississauga, Brampton, and Ontario.
Announced at a press conference, the operation, Project Chrome, was a 10-month joint-forces investigation. Police confiscated 67 handguns, four assault-style rifles, $1 million worth of cocaine and fentanyl, and $25,000 in cash. Most of the guns were smuggled from Detroit.
Ten individuals from various cities, including Mississauga and Brampton, were arrested and face 185 charges. The bust involved collaboration with Homeland Security, ATF, OPP, and other agencies.
Chief Nishan Duraiappah and Deputy Chief Nick Milinovich emphasized the significant threat posed by these firearms. Nearly 200 guns have been seized in Peel this year, matching the number of shootings in all of 2023.
This operation underscores the critical efforts to combat illegal firearms and their impact on community safety.