Police target organized crime in 36 drug busts across Quebec

More than 600 police officers raided 36 locations across Quebec early Wednesday morning, arresting 46 people in a series of drug busts targeting organized crime.

Provincial police teamed up with Montreal police and peacekeepers from the Kahnawake Mohawk territory to conduct the raids.

"It's a huge drug-dealer operation that we have this morning. It's against drug trafficking linked to the bikers. We're talking about Hells Angels," said Montreal police Sgt. Ian Lafrenière.

Lafrenière said police are going after crack producers and distributors. He said one raid was carried out at a warehouse in Kahnawake, and two Mohawks were arrested with the help of Mohawk peacekeepers.

"Everything has been smooth. We had no problem at all with people from the community. We had very good co-operation with the peacekeepers, and this is a very good example that people on the reserve don't tolerate organized crime, and they've been very willing to help us out," Lafrenière said.

Police said they seized quantities of cocaine, marijuana and ecstasy as well as contraband tobacco, guns and cash.

Those arrested face charges including gangsterism, drug trafficking, fraud, receiving stolen goods and conspiracy, police said.

Montreal police said the operation began in 2007 following tips received by city police concerning a network of drug traffickers who also sold contraband tobacco.

Police said they arrested 43 men and three women.