Police seize over $1M in drugs and cash in organized crime probe
Police have charged four Edmonton men and seized $1.3 million in drugs and cash following a 14-month-long organized crime investigation.
In February 2021, the EPS Drug and Gang Enforcement (EDGE) section began an investigation into the suspected trafficking of drugs by a group of four men.
Search warrants were executed on three vehicles and at five residences in south and southeast Edmonton.
Officers seized $540,000 in cash, cocaine, benzocaine, acetaminophen, phenacetin, boric acid, GHB, a Kia Sorento and Dodge Journey with hidden compartments, a 2021 Mercedes-benz GLE, 50 rounds of 9mm ammunition, a .22 calibre firearm magazine and box of .22 calibre ammunition, brass knuckles and a variety of items consistent with the trafficking of drugs.
Nadeem Abdulgany, 38, and Mohamed Cherkaoui, 34, are each charged with commission of an offence for a criminal organization, conspiracy and possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000.
Mahmoud Taliani, 34, and Rober Haberstock, 30, are each charged with commission of an offence for a criminal organization, conspiracy, possession for the purpose of trafficking and possession of the proceeds of crime over $5,000.
Haberstock is facing an additional charge for possession of a prohibited weapon.
Staff Sgt. David Paton with the EPS EDGE section said this investigation reveals drug trafficking can be a “lucrative business that comes at the expense of communities and those most vulnerable to the impacts of illicit drug use.”
“By targeting organized crime groups operating in this city, we are making our communities safer, holding these groups accountable and preventing them from preying on the vulnerable.”