Following an extensive drug trafficking investigation, the Halton Regional Police Service (HRPS) has arrested two men and seized an estimated $5 Million in Illicit drugs.

In early 2026 the HRPS Regional Drug and Organized Crime Unit, along with the Waterloo Regional Police Service (WRPS) Criminal Intelligence Project Team, initiated a joint force operation dubbed “Project Jester”. This investigation focused on a network of individuals believed to be involved in the importation and distribution of illicit substances within the GTA.

On March 27,  officers conducted a traffic stop on a vehicle bound for Quebec, which found the driver of the vehicle, Taleb Saleh, in possession of a large quantity of illicit drugs.

On May 7 a traffic stop was initiated at a commercial location in Brampton, where investigators located a significant amount of illicit drugs in a vehicle being operated by Sukhveer Birring.

Following the May 7, traffic stop a Controlled Drug and Substances Act (CDSA) search warrant was executed at an associated commercial building in Brampton used for drug processing and packaging.

As a result of the investigation, 20 kilograms of cocaine and 273 kilograms of methamphetamine were seized making the methamphetamine seizure the largest in HRPS history, with a total (cocaine and methamphetamine) combined street value of $5 Million (The monetary value of these illicit drugs is an estimate, and can vary significantly based on supply and demand).

Taleb Saleh (36) of Mississauga, has been charged with possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine

Sukhveer Birring (33), of Brampton, has been charged with  trafficking – Cocaine, Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking - Cocaine and possession for the Purpose of Trafficking – Methamphetamine (2 Counts)

Both Saleh and Birring were held in custody pending their respective bail hearings in Milton.

“This investigation reflects the dedication of law enforcement agencies working together to disrupt the flow of illegal drugs and dismantle criminal operations. The individuals involved in this trafficking network will face the full consequences of their actions, and we will continue to pursue those who threaten the safety and well-being of our communities” said Deputy Chief Jeff Hill, Investigative and Frontline Support Services, Halton Regional Police Service.

 “This investigation and the arrests made represent a major step in disrupting large-scale drug trafficking operations. The quantity of drugs involved highlights the scope of the alleged activity and the importance of coordinated enforcement efforts to keep our communities safe. We value our law enforcement partnerships and remain committed to working together to hold those involved in drug trafficking accountable,” said Deputy Chief Jen Davis, Waterloo Regional Police Service.

The HRPS would like to thank the WRPS for their assistance and partnership in this investigation.

The successful completion of this investigation was made possible through funding provided by the Ontario Government, Ministry of the Solicitor General in which the Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario supported this investigation.