Montreal police arrest seven suspects in Cabot Square drug clampdown

Montreal police announced on Tuesday they had arrested seven suspects in connection with drug trafficking at Cabot Square downtown.

In a statement, the force said that a series of search warrants executed between Nov. 5 and Dec. 17 had resulted in the seizure of quantities of cocaine, crack and various pills, as well as $8,000 in cash.

During that period, six men and one woman were taken into custody. Four of the suspects, including the 47-year-old woman, were released on conditions pending their next court appearance.

On Dec. 2, Wesley Barnes, 54, and Rosly Alix Ngassaki, 39, were arrested and they appeared in court the next day to face charges of drug trafficking and possession. On Dec. 17, Martin Richardson, 45, was arrested and appeared in court to face similar charges.

The arrests were carried out by the Montreal police narcotics squad as well as the local police precinct as part of an effort to increase security and quality of life in the neighbourhood.