RCMP arrest 3 in Saint-Sauveur on international drug trafficking charges

Police say the drugs originated in Colombia and were shipped in metal cylinders. (Photo: Royal Canadian Mounted Police)

Three people, including two from Quebec, have been arrested by the RCMP in connection with an international cocaine trafficking operation.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police issued a news release Wednesday saying a police operation on Friday resulted in the seizure of 67 kilograms of cocaine at a residence in Saint-Sauveur, as well as $115,000 in cash, firearm ammunition, and several cellphones, among other items.

Police say the drugs originated in Colombia and were shipped in metal cylinders.

The three people arrested are:

• Rodrigue Gionet, 72, from Allardville, N.B.
• Sébastien Morel, 42, from Saint-Sauveur, Que.
• Evens Pierrelouis, 50, from Saint-Sauveur, Que.

All three suspects appeared at the St-Jérôme courthouse Friday to face charges of importing and possessing cocaine for the purpose of trafficking.

They remain in custody pending further proceedings and are scheduled to appear again on Wednesday at the Montreal courthouse for their bail hearing.

Two other people were also arrested, questioned, and then released the same day as the operation, and police say they could potentially face charges.

The investigation is ongoing.