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More than a dozen people have been charged after two related investigations into drug networks trafficking chitta, a mixture of heroin and methamphetamine.
The first investigation, Project Khallas, began in May 2024 and ended in October. The organization it targeted used mobile traffickers -- also called dial-a-dealers -- as its main way of selling the drugs, the Winnipeg Police Service said in a news release Thursday.
After obtaining search warrants, the WPS drug-enforcement unit raided homes on Oakburn Place, Peter Sosiak Bay and Daylan Marshall Gate, and on Lewin Lane in West St. Paul, on Oct. 30.
Police seized about 105 grams of heroin with an estimated street value of $58,000 and about 22 grams of meth worth an estimated $1,100, the WPS said. Officers also seized a vacuum sealer, packaging materials, Canadian and U.S. cash, and identity documents.
Police identified Neelam Grewal, 53, as the head of the organization. He is charged with trafficking heroin, possession for the purpose of trafficking heroin and methamphetamine, possession of proceeds of crime over $5,000, laundering, and breaching conditions of a suspended sentence and release orders. He was detained in custody.
Six other people between the ages of 36 and 49 were arrested and released on undertakings. They have since been charged with drug trafficking-related offences.
Project Black Dragon began in June after investigators determined a new group of people had taken over the operation of the dismantled drug-trafficking network.
Police raided two homes on Sapphire Place and Drimes Place, and searched five linked vehicles, on Sept. 9. The WPS said parcel-delivery companies dropped off drugs at one of the homes.
Investigators seized more than 800 grams of chitta worth an estimated $168,600 and other items, including 12 legally-owned guns, the WPS said.
Police said Jagwinder Singh Brar, 45, was the head of the drug organization. He has been charged with multiple offences related to drugs and the proceeds of crime.
Five other people between the ages of 19 and 40 were released on undertakings and have since been charged with drug trafficking-related offences.
The Canada Border Services Agency helped police in the investigations.