Six-tonne Hashish Haul Marks Fifth Drugs Bust for Toronto

Photo: HMCS Toronto’s boarding party approaches the suspect dhow

A Combined Maritime Forces (CMF) warship recently seized her fifth -and largest – narcotics shipment in the Gulf of Aden.

HMCS Toronto intercepted and boarded a suspected smuggling vessel about 60 miles off the southern coast of Oman, and discovered almost six tonnes of hashish.

The Halifax-class frigate is currently working with CMF to promote stability and security in the Indian Ocean. She is attached to Combined Task Force 150, the CMF Task Force charged with countering terrorism-related and other illicit activity in the region – including narcotics smuggling, which is a known source of funding for terrorist organisations.

CMF and CTF 150 have been actively building links and working in close cooperation with local, regional, and international law enforcement agencies in the Middle East, enabling them to identify potential offenders at sea.

Photo: Bales of hashish are stacked on the quarterdeck of Her Majesty’s Canadian Ship (HMCS) TORONTO in preparation for disposal

“I am extremely proud of the high level of proficiency and tenacity that my crew has shown on this deployment. The outstanding work of all onboard has contributed to these record narcotics seizures,” said Commander Jeff Hamilton, Commanding Officer of HMCS Toronto.

“Toronto continues to operate with our CTF 150 partners to combat terrorism at all levels. Every dollar we deny these terrorist organizations works towards making our world a safer place.”

Commodore Simon Ancona, Deputy Commander of CMF, said: “I would like to extend my wholehearted congratulations to the crew of HMCS Toronto.

“By intercepting these smugglers we keep narcotics off the streets, we keep money out of the hands of criminals, and we improve the quality of life for those affected by the drug trade.”