(Toronto, Canada) – Toronto police say a months-long investigation into firearms and drug activity has resulted in 44 arrests and 187 charges.

Police announced the Project Matrix results October 28. The operation began March 1 and brought together investigations led by 55 Division's Major Crime Unit into alleged offences within the division.

Investigators reported seizing eight firearms they described as illegal and 792 rounds of ammunition. The drugs police listed included cocaine, methamphetamine, fentanyl and MDMA.

The service said the charges included firearms handling or storage offences, drug possession for trafficking, breaches of probation and possession of property obtained by crime.

Those figures describe police enforcement and allegations. Arrests and charges are not convictions, and the announcement does not establish the outcome of any individual case.

Police said the enforcement initiative would continue. Anyone with relevant information can contact 55 Division at 416-808-5500.

Sources: Toronto Police Service, October 28, 10:05 a.m.; CityNews, October 28, 11:11 a.m..

Editorial illustration of secured evidence storage and Toronto; not a photograph of seized items.