One-hundred and twenty five people were arrested in what police describe as “an operation believed to be the largest of its kind in Ontario.

Chief Bill Blair said Project Fusion targeted a high level of organized crime and involved over 1,000 officers from across the province.

“Project Fusion began in mid-2008 and focused on a series of violent crimes dating back to 2003,” Blair said at a press conference.

“It is alleged that those involved are leaders, members and/or associates who participate in two criminal organizations that operate in concert with each other, known as the “MNE” (Markham Road/Eglinton Avenue East), and the “400 Crew” (400/McCowan Road),” Blair said.

The Chief said the focus of the investigation was “not only the criminal organizations MNE and 400 Crew, but the people alleged to be responsible for the supply of firearms and illegal drugs to these criminal organizations.”

A total of 100 homes and 61 vehicles were the targets of the search warrants across Toronto, as well as in York, Peel and Durham.

The project was a joint investigation combining the TPS Integrated Gun and Gang Task Force, Durham Regional Police Service, Ontario Provincial Police – Organized Crime Enforcement Unit, the TPS Drug Squad, the TPS Proceeds of Crime Unit, as well as Divisional Policing Command.

Over 42 pounds of cocaine, 64.7 pounds of marijuana, 30,000 tabs of Ecstasy, 41 grams of Oxycotin and 344 grams of crack were seized. The street value of the drugs exceeds $3.5 million.

As well, $431.340 in cash, 40 firearms and 12 vehicles were seized.

Supt. Greg Getty, head of the Organized Crime Enforcement Unit, said the accused face numerous charges, including Instructing Commission of an Offence for Criminal Organization, Commit Criminal Offence in Association with a Criminal Organization, Trafficking in Firearms, Conspiracy to Traffic in Firearms and Attempted Murder.