‘Project Champion’: 17 people arrested following 18-month investigation into drug trafficking in Ottawa area [Video]

Seventeen people are facing charges following an 18-month investigation into the illegal drug trade operating in the Ottawa area.

The Ottawa Police Service and Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) provided an update on the “Project Champion” investigation on Thursday, with 17 people facing a total of 149 criminal charges.

“Project Champion’s mandate was to disrupt and arrest members of violent criminal networks focused on the illegal drug trade operating in the Ottawa area,” Chief Eric Stubbs told reporters.

“These individuals came to our attention during criminal investigations that involved violent crimes, including homicides and shootings.”

Officers with Homicide, Guns and Gangs, Street Crime and Intelligence units, “targeted criminal organizations responsible for cocaine and drug trafficking and street-level gun violence,” police said.

Police seized 6.5 kilograms of cocaine and a small amount of crack cocaine, along with five guns during the investigation.

The Ottawa Police Service provided an update on the “Project …