Thorold, Ont. man wanted, 5 arrested after region-wide drug trafficking probe

Police are on the hunt for a man wanted in connection with an investigation into drug trafficking across the Niagara region.

Matthew Russell, 33, of Thorold is wanted for nine drug trafficking and weapons related charges.

Officers say he is part of a drug trafficking ring that is accused of bringing narcotics into Niagara from outside the region.

Detectives say they searched three addresses in Niagara Falls and one in Thorold and uncovered:

• $150,000 worth of suspected cocaine
• $70,000 of suspected fentanyl
• $58,330 worth of suspected oxycontin
• $22,500 worth of suspected crystal methamphetamine
• $16,680 in Canadian currency
• 9mm semi-automatic handgun

Kyle Knight, 35, of Niagara Falls is the alleged ringleader. Eight drug trafficking related charges have been laid against him.

Four other people have been arrested in this investigation: 61-year-old Jeffrey Russell of Thorold, 55-year-old Linda Pizzi of Niagara Falls, 47-year-old Jody Roberts of Niagara Falls and 48-year-old Curtis Bennett of Niagara Falls.

Anyone who sees Matthew Russell is asked to call 911 and not approach.

Those with information are asked to call 905-688-4111.

Tips can also be submitted anonymously through the Crime Stoppers website or by calling 1-800-222-8477.

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