Calgary, AB,
15
December
2015
|
08:22
America/Denver

Fentanyl Trafficking Operation

Four men have been charged in the trafficking of highly toxic fentanyl pills following an eight-week investigation by the Calgary Police Service Drug Unit.

The investigation into a fentanyl trafficking operation began in October following a tip from a member of the public. Lab analysis of drugs obtained early in the investigation showed that the pills contained between 4.7 – 5.6 mg of fentanyl per tablet, two to three times the average lethal dose.

It is not yet known whether this highly toxic fentanyl is responsible for any deaths in Calgary.

On Thursday, Dec. 10, 2015, search warrants were executed on a vehicle and two residences located in the 500 block of Rundlehorn Circle N.E., and the 100 block of Rundleridge Way N.E. The following items were seized:

  • 65 fentanyl pills
  • 14.2 grams of marijuana
  • $2,038 cash
  • Baton
  • Multiple cell phones

Although only a small amount of drugs was seized at the time, it is believed that the individuals involved had access to, and sold, a large amount of fentanyl.

As a result of the investigation, the following four men face 38 charges.

Omri MOM, 21, of Calgary, is charged with seven counts of trafficking fentanyl, six counts of possession of the proceeds of crime, one count of possession of marijuana and one count of possession of a weapon dangerous. He will next appear in court on Friday, Dec. 18, 2015.

Mohammad ELKHATIB, 26, of Calgary, is charged with five counts of possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking, five counts of possession of proceeds of crime and one count of possession of stolen property. He will next appear in court on Friday, Dec. 18, 2015.

Ali GANDOUR, 26, of Calgary, is charged with 10 counts of possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking. He will next appear in court on Friday, Dec. 18, 2015.

Ali EL-GHANDOUR, 32, of Calgary, is charged with one count of possession of fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking and one count of possession of the proceeds of crime. He will next appear in court on Monday, Jan. 11, 2015.

Details of a media availability will follow in a seperate advisory.