Dark Web Takedown: RCMP Dismantles Major GTA Drug and Firearm Trafficking Ring

A sophisticated dark web operation, allegedly responsible for peddling a dangerous cocktail of illicit drugs and firearms across Canada and internationally, has been decisively shut down by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). Seven individuals from the Greater Toronto Area (GTA) have been charged following an extensive investigation that highlights the relentless efforts of law enforcement to dismantle organized crime operating in the shadows of the internet.

This major bust, dubbed 'Project Faint,' is a Canadian component of the broader 'Operation Dark Web' led by the U.S.

Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI). Together, these coordinated efforts have resulted in over 50 arrests across Canada and the United States, sending a clear message to those who exploit the dark web for nefarious purposes.

Investigators revealed that the alleged perpetrators operated a prominent dark web vendor account known as 'Takedown.' This account was a notorious fixture on various illicit online marketplaces, including AlphaBay, White House Market, and Empire Market, where it was used to facilitate the sale of a wide array of dangerous substances and weapons.

The enterprise reportedly leveraged Canada Post to discreetly ship its illicit cargo to customers, both domestically and internationally, highlighting the insidious methods employed by these networks.

The scale of the operation was staggering. During the course of 'Project Faint,' law enforcement agencies executed numerous search warrants that led to significant seizures.

Among the recovered items were an alarming 10 kilograms of cocaine, 4 kilograms of fentanyl, and 2 kilograms of carfentanil – substances with devastating potential for addiction and overdose. The haul also included 1 kilogram of methamphetamine, 1,000 pills of oxycodone, 10,000 pills of MDMA, and 5,000 benzodiazepine pills.

Beyond drugs, the alleged ring was deeply entrenched in firearm trafficking.

Eleven firearms were seized, alongside more than $150,000 in cash, which is believed to be the proceeds of their criminal activities. To underscore the profitability of their illicit trade, four high-end vehicles—a Porsche, a Mercedes-Benz, a BMW, and a Jeep—were also confiscated.

The seven individuals charged in connection with this widespread criminal enterprise, all from the GTA, include: Samer El-Betar, 27, of Toronto; Richard Liu, 27, of Toronto; Tyson Nguyen, 29, of Toronto; Demitra Papadopoulos, 26, of Markham; Justin Tang, 27, of Toronto; Ardit Xhemnica, 27, of Toronto; and Aron Tona, 30, of Toronto.

Each faces multiple serious charges, including trafficking firearms, possession for the purpose of trafficking, and conspiracy to commit these crimes. They are scheduled to appear in court in Toronto on December 1.

RCMP Supt. Rob Paul, who leads the serious and organized crime team, emphasized the resolve of law enforcement to combat such sophisticated criminal operations.

“The dark web offers a perceived veil of anonymity for criminals, but it does not shield them from justice,” stated Supt. Paul. “This investigation demonstrates our unwavering commitment to dismantle organized crime groups, regardless of the platform they use to endanger our communities.”

This successful operation underscores the critical collaboration between national and international law enforcement agencies, including the FBI, U.S.

Drug Enforcement Administration (DEA), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), U.S. Postal Inspection Service (USPIS), Homeland Security Investigations (HSI), as well as local partners like Peel Regional Police and the Toronto Police Service. Their combined efforts were instrumental in bringing these alleged dark web criminals to justice and making communities safer.