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2 pharmacists among 6 charged in opioid trafficking bust

York Regional Police officers seized more than $500,000 in drugs, one firearm and more than $220,000
NewmarketToday Staff

NEWS RELEASE
YORK REGIONAL POLICE
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Investigators with the York Regional Police Intelligence Bureau have seized more than $500,000 worth of drugs and charged six people, including two pharmacists, in connection with opioid trafficking.

In late 2019, officers began an investigation into a group of suspects believed to be trafficking opiate pills. In December 2019, officers executed an initial search warrant in the City of Toronto and made several arrests. The investigation continued and led officers to two pharmacists who were charged in connection with the incidents. In total, officers seized more than $500,000 in opioid drugs, one firearm and more than $220,000 in cash.

Charged: 

  • Walter Jovel, 27, of Toronto

Charges: 

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking - schedule 1 substance

Charged: 

  • John Gerges, 35, of Toronto

Charges: 

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking - schedule 1 substance x3  
  • Possession of a forged document with intent

Charged: 

  • Sahir Shemun, 39, of Vaughan

Charges: 

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking - schedule 1 substance x2

Charged: 

Sandra Youssef, 30, of Toronto

Charges: 

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking - schedule 1 substance
  • Possession of a forged document with intent

Charged:

  • Blarsn Zaro, 31, of Vaughan

Charges: 

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking - schedule 1 substance
  • Fail to comply with conditions of recognizance

Charged: 

  • Firas Georges, 36, of Vaughan

Charges:

  • Possession for the purpose of trafficking - schedule 1 substance
  • Unauthorized possession of a prohibited device or ammunition
  • Possession of a firearm knowing its possession is unauthorized
  • Possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition
  • Careless storage of a firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition

Anyone with information is asked to contact the York Regional Police Intelligence Bureau at 1-866-876-5423, ext.7835, or call Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS, leave an anonymous tip online at www.1800222tips.com.

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