The RCMP say they have dismantled a major cocaine importation racket based in Montreal and Quebec City.

Police arrested at least 17 people after conducting raids early Thursday in Montreal, Quebec City and the Saguenay.

The RCMP arrested 17 people Thursday in a cocaine trafficking bust.The RCMP arrested 17 people Thursday in a cocaine trafficking bust.
(Radio-Canada)

Other raids are underway in British Columbia.

The RCMP said the drug trafficking ring imported South American cocaine by boat.

But Cpl. Luc Bessette said the drugs did not come through the Port of Montreal because of heightened security measures.

Suspects arrested in Quebec will appear in a Montreal courtroom Thursday afternoon to face a total of 100 charges, including conspiracy and trafficking.

The investigation, dubbed "Cubain et Cabernet," involved RCMP drug specialists and Canada Border Services agents.