A major drug trafficking network operating across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) has been dismantled following a series of coordinated raids by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) and partner agencies. The operation, dubbed Project Shearwater, led to the seizure of 300 kilograms of cocaine worth an estimated 29millionand29millionand50,000 in cash.
The investigation began in September 2024 after police uncovered evidence of high-level drug trafficking activity in the GTA. On December 13, officers executed a search warrant at a Mississauga home and vehicle, marking the first of several raids. Between January 16 and 17, police expanded their efforts, conducting five additional searches in Toronto, Ajax, Markham, and Gravenhurst, as well as five vehicle searches.
Four men have been arrested and charged with 11 offences, including conspiracy to traffic cocaine and possession for the purpose of trafficking. Among those charged is Javier Luis Martinez Hernandez, a 29-year-old Mexican national who was already subject to an immigration warrant for removal by the Canada Border Services Agency.
The other accused include:
- Jason Tsang, 40, of Markham
- Sajjad Wadiwalla, 42, of Ajax
- Philippe Payeur, 48, of Toronto
A fifth suspect, Brian Nelson, 38, of Toronto, remains at large and is wanted for conspiracy to traffic cocaine.
“This quantity of cocaine is a significant seizure and is the result of excellent investigative work by dedicated members of the OPP and our partners,” said OPP Chief Supt. Mike Stoddart, commander of the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau. “We are committed to deterring, detecting, and disrupting criminal activity across Ontario.”
Project Shearwater is part of the OPP-led Provincial Guns and Gangs Enforcement Team’s mandate to combat organized crime, reduce illegal firearms, and disrupt drug trafficking networks. The team collaborates with 20 police agencies across Ontario and Quebec, as well as international partners like the RCMP and the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
The bust underscores the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to tackle organized crime and its impact on communities. “This operation sends a clear message: we will not tolerate drug trafficking or the violence it brings to our streets,” added Chief Supt. Stoddart.