The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) recently dismantled a significant drug operation in Falkland, British Columbia, seizing a $485 million drug ‘super-lab’ linked to a transnational crime group involved in fentanyl and methamphetamine production. The operation resulted in the arrest of Gaganpreet Randhawa, a suspect of Punjabi origin, though his specific address in Punjab has not been disclosed.
Details of the Operation:
- Drugs Seized:
- 54 kg of fentanyl
- 390 kg of methamphetamine
- 35 kg of cocaine
- 15 kg of MDMA
- 6 kg of cannabis
- Weapons and Ammunition:
- A total of 89 firearms, including 45 handguns and 21 AR-15-style rifles, many of which were loaded and ready for use. Nine of these weapons were identified as stolen.
- The police also confiscated body armor, firearm silencers, a large amount of ammunition, and small explosive devices.
- Financial Assets: Authorities seized approximately $500,000 in cash.
Background of the Investigation:
The RCMP’s operation began on October 25, involving coordinated enforcement actions across Metro Vancouver, including executing search warrants at the drug super-lab and related sites in Surrey. Investigators uncovered substantial methamphetamine shipments prepared for international distribution during their inquiry. They also seized around 5,000 liters and over 10 tons of powdered precursor chemicals, believed to be essential for producing fentanyl and MDMA.
Assistant Commissioner David Teboul described the dismantled super-lab as the largest and most sophisticated of its kind, emphasizing the operation’s capability to produce various illicit drugs. This proactive initiative reflects the RCMP’s ongoing commitment to combatting both domestic drug production and international trafficking, particularly in light of the fentanyl crisis affecting communities across Canada.
Disclaimer: The information provided is based on reports and news sources. While efforts have been made to ensure accuracy, details may change as new information becomes available. Always refer to official announcements and news outlets for the latest updates.
