By: Muhammad Aamir, Local Journalism Initiative Reporter, The Milton Reporter
The Halton police have seized nine illegal firearms and laid nearly 100 charges following an extensive drug and firearms investigation across the Greater Toronto Area.
The multi-month operation, titled Project Medusa, was conducted by the Halton Police Regional Drug and Organized Crime Unit. The investigation targeted the distribution of illicit drugs, primarily cocaine, within the Halton region and surrounding areas in the GTA.
Project Medusa culminated in the arrest of three men on October 17 and 18. Four search warrants were executed in the Toronto area, leading to the seizure of a large quantity of drugs, firearms, and cash. The drugs confiscated included seven kilograms of cocaine, half a kilogram each of crystal methamphetamine and fentanyl, 114 grams of ketamine, 678 Oxycodone tablets, and 38 Benzocaine tablets. Officers also found various cutting agents and materials used in the manufacture of fentanyl, underscoring the organized nature of the suspected drug trafficking operation.
The firearms seized as part of Project Medusa included a loaded 9mm carbine with a high-capacity magazine, several 9mm and .45 calibre Glock handguns (including one with a removed serial number), a P80 “ghost gun,” and a substantial amount of ammunition—approximately 250 rounds. Police also impounded a stolen, re-vinned Mercedes-Benz and seized roughly $60,000 in cash believed to be connected to the illicit activities of the accused.
The three men arrested in connection with the investigation face a combined total of 85 charges, with further charges anticipated. Trevor Beriault, 33, of North York, faces 19 charges related to drug trafficking. Abdulwahab Shiekh, 28, also of North York, has been charged with 65 offences, including weapons trafficking, multiple firearms offences, breaches of two firearms prohibition orders, and drug trafficking. Michael Estrada Souza, 31, of Toronto, is charged with possession of property obtained by crime.
“Project Medusa exemplifies the unwavering commitment of the Halton Regional Police Service to community safety,” said Superintendent Dave Stewart of Regional Investigative Services.
“Through meticulous investigation over several months, our officers successfully removed nine illegal firearms, and a large quantity of illicit drugs from our streets. This project also resulted in the arrest of three individuals who now face close to 100 charges collectively. The successful conclusion of Project Medusa has undoubtedly made Halton region and the GTA a safer place for all.”
This lengthy investigation was completed successfully through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General, in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation.
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