Major Drug Lab Bust in Ontario: Trio Arrested, Millions Seized

BREAKING: A significant drug lab bust in Ontario has resulted in the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of millions of dollars’ worth of illegal drugs and hazardous materials. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) dismantled the synthetic drug operation on September 7, 2025, following a months-long investigation dubbed Project Overboil.

Authorities uncovered a sophisticated clandestine lab hidden on a large rural property in Schomberg, Ontario, along with a secondary storage site in Port Colborne. Police reported that the operation produced synthetic drugs like MDMA, GHB, and methamphetamines, and generated thousands of liters of hazardous waste that required 10 days to neutralize on site.

The RCMP executed search warrants at the lab, resulting in the seizure of approximately 239 kilograms of finished drugs, along with $8,000 in cash, precursor chemicals such as acetone and methanol, and industrial drug-making equipment, including pill presses and rotary evaporators. Police also recovered two firearms and prohibited magazines during the operation.

Supt. Jonathan Ko, the officer in charge of the Central Region Organized Crime unit, stated, “The arrest of three individuals and the seizure of numerous items represent a significant disruption to the illegal drug trade in Canada.” The suspects, identified as Christopher O’Quinn, Liang Gao, and Katie King, are facing a combined total of 33 charges related to drug production, trafficking, and firearms offenses.

Authorities were alerted to suspicious activity when Oquin Industries, the company linked to the chemical purchases, abruptly resumed buying chemicals after a three-year hiatus. These chemicals are known to be integral in the production of various street drugs, including fentanyl and methamphetamines.

Chief Supt. Chris Leather emphasized the operation’s importance, stating, “While it involved the seizure of millions of dollars’ worth of suspected controlled substances and cash, the true importance lies in the fact that we removed a synthetic drug lab and neutralized thousands of liters of hazardous waste.” He further noted that this operation has prevented the potential production of millions of dollars in synthetic drugs and mitigated a serious public safety threat from the unsafe storage of dangerous chemicals.

This incident is part of a concerning national trend, reflecting the rise of synthetic opioid production within Canada. Since January 1, 2024, the RCMP has dismantled a total of 50 clandestine drug laboratories, highlighting the urgent need for continued vigilance against the illegal drug trade.

As the investigation continues, authorities are working to ensure that the remnants of this operation do not pose further risks to the community. The public is urged to remain aware and report any suspicious activities related to drug production or trafficking in their areas.

Stay tuned for further updates on this developing story.