Police in Quebec have arrested 11 suspects—including alleged Montreal Mafia leader Leonardo Rizzuto—in a sweeping operation targeting organized crime across the province.
A joint press conference held by provincial police (SQ) and the Montreal police (SPVM) Thursday morning revealed about 150 police officers from both forces were deployed across the province earlier in the day as part of the sting operation.
“This is one of the most significant police operations in recent decades,” Criminal Investigations Director with SQ, Benoit Dubé, told reporters.
Officers were deployed across the cities of Montreal, Laval, Blainville, Shefford, St-Lazare, Repentigny, Quebec City and Rosemère.
Of the 11 male suspects arrested, three were already incarcerated.
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The suspects are accused of being involved in one or more murders or attempted murders — whether as sponsors, executors, or accomplices –between 2011 and 2021, authorities say.
“This investigation is helping solve several violent crimes, including incidents involving innocent victims, thereby providing …