Operation Turbulence: Drug bust nets 8 suspects, cocaine and cash

Police in Labrador West, Quebec and on the Northeast Avalon scooped up eight suspects and a large amount of cocaine and cash this week, as part of an investigation called Operation Turbulence.

The drug seizure included five kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of $600,000, and about 2,200 methamphetamine pills — known on the street as ICE — with a street value of about $7 each.

About $100,000 in cash was also seized, along with various other items used in cocaine production and distribution, including a cocaine press and 27 kilograms of "cutting agent."

Police described it as a "significant drug seizure" following an extensive investigation by a joint unit from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary.

Six search warrants were simultaneously executed on Tuesday, and resulted in the arrest of six residents of Labrador City and Wabush.

They include Gary Mulrooney, 50, Todd Bixby, 38, Craig Oldford, 48, David Fowler, 31, Kimberley Montague, 37, and Jean St. Marie, 59.

Michael Burton, 30, of Paradise, and Martin Sinard, 58, of Saint-Hubert, Que., were also arrested.

They face a variety of drug-related charges, including cocaine trafficking and possession, and laundering the proceeds of crime. 

In a news conference held Thursday in St. John's, RNC Supt. Marlene Jesso said she believes the arrests will have a "significant impact" on the drug trade in Labrador and the St. John's area. 

She described the 12-month investigation as "very thorough and complicated," with roughly 30 police officers involved.

All eight of the accused made a court appearance on Wednesday. Only one, Gary Mulrooney, remained in custody, awaiting a bail hearing.

Police say the investigating is ongoing, and more charges are likely.