Six people are facing numerous firearm and drug charges following what police are calling a “lengthy investigation into cocaine trafficking” in York Region and the Greater Toronto Area. Dubbed Project Blade, the probe also resulted in the seizure of 28 ounces of cocaine with an estimated street value of more than $24,000, four firearms, one replica firearm, a vehicle, a motorcycle, and $66,000 in cash, York Regional Police said in a news release. These seizures come after the execution of search warrants on July 16 at homes in Aurora, Vaughan, and Toronto. The investigation got underway in 2025 after police said they became aware of an individual who was involved in the trafficking of controlled substances and firearms in York Region and surrounding areas. “Over several months, investigators identified additional suspects and gathered evidence related to the distribution of firearms and controlled substances,” they said. Antonio Augustino, 35, of Vaughan, and Paula Melo, 55, of Toronto as well as Aurora residents Shahriar Daliri, 33, Carmelo Parisi, 30, and Tyler Agnel, 29, have been charged. Combined, they face a total of 40 charges. This investigation is ongoing and anyone with further information is asked to contact the Gangs and Drug Enforcement Unit at 1-866-876-5423, ext. 7817, or Crime Stoppers anonymously.
