A Toronto doctor named Cindy Ly has been charged along with 11 other individuals in connection with a major fentanyl manufacturing operation, according to Hamilton Police. The operation, known as Project Odeon, was the result of a nearly two-year investigation involving various law enforcement agencies across Ontario. The investigation led to the discovery of three fentanyl labs and two storage facilities containing chemicals, laboratory equipment, and evidence of drug trafficking in the Greater Toronto Area and Hamilton.

The total street value of the seized fentanyl and synthetic drugs is estimated to be around $4 million. The collaboration between Hamilton Police, Criminal Intelligence Service Ontario, York Regional Police, Ontario Provincial Police, Toronto Police, and other agencies played a crucial role in dismantling the operation.

Insp. Benoit Thibodeau, who oversaw Project Odeon, emphasized the significance of shutting down these laboratories, as it would prevent potential overdoses in the community. The operation was described as sophisticated and long-standing.

The investigation began after a 911 call in November 2021, when a young man died inside a Hamilton residence. The police discovered a large-scale drug lab at the scene, suspected to be involved in fentanyl production. The lab had the capacity to produce 63kg of fentanyl at a time.

Based on the equipment used, investigators were able to trace the source to a U.S. company that sold lab items to a company in Oshawa. Subsequent search warrants executed on August 2 resulted in the seizure of fentanyl labs, chemicals, lab equipment, and other items across various locations.

A total of 64.1 kg of illicit drugs were recovered, including fentanyl, methamphetamine, ketamine, cocaine, and a chemical precursor. The investigators also found a loaded firearm with ammunition, extended prohibited magazines, and over $350,000 in alleged proceeds of crime, including assets like vehicles, jewelry, and designer clothing.

The 12 individuals face a total of 48 criminal charges, including possession for the purpose of trafficking, production of a controlled substance, possession of proceeds of crime, possession of a firearm, and conspiracy to commit an indictable offense.

Among the accused are Charanpal Gill, Jasanpal Gill, Elizabeth Milne, Garry Moore, Amanpreet Shergill, Ghais Sultani, Akela Sultani, Fais Sultani, Weeda Sultani, Ly Duy Luan Do, and Shkelqim Ibishi. Suspect Kien Trung Hoang, also from Toronto, is currently wanted on a Canada-wide warrant.

The College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario is aware of the charges against Cindy Ly. The dismantling of this fentanyl operation is expected to have a significant impact on curbing the illegal drug trade and preventing potential overdoses in the community.