Province-wide police effort with CENTAURE leads to record cocaine seizure
Tashi Farmilo
A major drug trafficking investigation has led to a record cocaine seizure and the arrest of five individuals in the Gatineau and Masson-Angers sectors.
The investigation began on July 9, when Simon-Didier Perron, 26, of Gatineau, was arrested during a vehicle stop in Montreal with the cooperation of Gatineau and Montreal Police. Officers seized nearly 40 kilograms of cocaine. Perron was released following this initial arrest.
The investigation advanced with the execution of five search warrants for two apartments and three residences in Gatineau on July 16. The raids involved the intervention group and a canine unit. Perron was arrested again at one of the search locations. He appeared in court the next day to face several charges, including trafficking a controlled substance, possession of cocaine and other substances for the purpose of trafficking, possession of a prohibited firearm, and multiple firearms-related offences.
The searches resulted in the seizure of approximately 40 kilograms of cocaine, 1,890 grams of methamphetamine, a .45 calibre pistol, ammunition, a 2021 Mercedes GLB, small quantities of GHB and cannabis, several mobile phones, and various items linked to drug distribution.
This operation forms part of the CENTAURE strategy, a province-wide initiative aimed at disrupting organized crime and the trafficking of illegal firearms. The strategy brings together police forces across Quebec to maintain coordinated pressure at the local, regional, and provincial levels.
Gatineau Police are encouraging anyone with information related to illegal firearms or drug trafficking to contact the confidential tip line at 819-243-4636, option 5. Information concerning firearms offences may also be reported to the CENTAURE line at 1-833-888-2763. Individuals worried about someone who may pose a safety risk due to firearm possession are urged to contact the prevention line “J’ai un doute, j’appelle!” at 1-800-731-4000, options 1 and 2. In an emergency, the public should call 911.