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In partnership with the U.S. Drug Enforcement Administration and the Harris County Sheriff’s Office in Houston, Texas, ALERT intercepted an 81-kilogram shipment of cocaine in Houston in May, where Elizabeth Kathleen Fisher, 49, of Calgary, was arrested and has remained in a Texas prison ever since.

“We believe these drugs were destined for Canada and part of a larger importation scheme that had links from B.C. to Ontario,” said Wallace. “The Texas arrest was the catalyst for ALERT to execute search warrants and begin making arrests north of the border.”

It is alleged that 53-year-old Warren Chui Lowe, of Calgary, is behind the extensive drug trafficking network and that he sent Fisher to obtain and transport the cocaine to Canada. Lowe is facing extensive criminal charges related to organized crime, trafficking drugs and firearms.

Since the Houston arrest, additional arrests have been staggered, with the most recent taking place on Oct. 3.

Several others believed to play a lesser role — akin to middle managers, distributors and couriers — have been arrested and authorities said there could be additional arrests in the future. There are 77 criminal charges laid in total for the seven people arrested.

Project Coyote has involved more than 30 search warrants, so far. As a result, $3.2 million in assets have been restrained in addition to the seizure of $1.3 million in cash.

“I want to highlight that (the) financial crime aspect of these huge multimillionaire enterprises is absolutely integral. If we can shut down their bank accounts, we can dismantle any hopes of their ability to resume business operations and drug activity,” said Wallace.