RCMP bust Canada's 'largest, most sophisticated' drug superlab in small BC town

The Pacific Region RCMP Federal Policing program says it took down one of the “largest and most sophisticated” drug superlabs in Canada.

On Friday, RCMP federal investigators executed search warrants in Falkland and other locations in Surrey.

The search warrants were the result of an investigation into a transnational organized crime group believed to be involved in the mass-production and distribution of fentanyl and meth in Canada and internationally.

In a news release, the RCMP say the combined fentanyl and precursors seized at this facility could have made over 95 million potentially lethal doses of fentanyl.

Investigators seized 54 kilograms of fentanyl, “massive” amounts of precursor chemicals, 390 kg of meth, 35 kg of cocaine, 15 kg of MDMA and six kg of cannabis.

A total of 89 firearms, including 45 hand guns, 21 AR-15-style rifles and submachine guns, were also seized.

To date, nine have been identified as stolen.

The search also seized small explosive devices, large amounts of ammunition, firearm silencers, high-capacity magazines, body armour and $500,000 in cash.

According to the news release, investigators became aware of several large shipments of meth that had already been prepared for international export.

With the help of Canada Border Services Agency, the RCMP’s federal policing program was able to stop 310 kg of meth from leaving the county.

Gaganpreet Randhawa was identified as the main suspect, and arrested by Federal Policing Group-6 investigators.

Randhawa is currently in custody, and has been charged with numerous drug, and firearms-related offences.

“As part of our crackdown on the large-scale production, distribution, and international export of illicit drugs, our dedicated RCMP Federal Policing investigators have successfully neutralized what is believed to be the largest illicit fentanyl, and methamphetamine facility ever discovered by law enforcement in Canada,” said Insp. Jillian Wellard

“This is undoubtedly a major blow to the transnational organized crime groups involved, and a great step towards ensuring the safety of Canadians, and the international community.”

Although the investigation is ongoing and one person has been arrested, investigators say they have been able to link this operation to the recent seizure of 30 tonnes of precursor chemicals in Enderby earlier this month.