Dave "Pic" Turmel, the most wanted criminal in Canada, was arrested in Rome, Italy, on March 27, 2025, following a lengthy 610-day manhunt. The 28-year-old is alleged to be the leader of the Blood Family Mafia (BFM), a gang embroiled in a violent conflict with the Hells Angels over drug trafficking control in Quebec. His arrest was confirmed by various media outlets, although the Service de police de la Ville de Québec (SPVQ) has not officially commented on the matter.
Turmel had been on the run since July 24, 2023, when a Canada-wide arrest warrant was issued against him for serious charges, including drug trafficking, conspiracy, and armed assault with injury. His notoriety rose sharply, leading him to the top of Canada’s most wanted list in December 2024, with a staggering reward of up to $250,000 offered for information leading to his capture.
His apprehension was the result of a collaborative effort between Canadian authorities and the Italian police, which culminated in his arrest at his apartment in Rome. According to an anonymous source, Turmel did not resist arrest, marking the end of a dramatic escape that had seen him elude law enforcement for over a year and a half.
The violent rivalry between the BFM and the Hells Angels has been escalating, particularly in regions like Sept-Îles and the North Shore of Quebec. The conflict reportedly began in 2022 when Turmel's gang ceased purchasing cocaine from the Hells Angels, leading to a series of violent incidents, including kidnappings and torturous acts that have drawn comparisons to the brutal tactics employed by drug cartels.
In the lead-up to Turmel's arrest, the SPVQ had intensified its efforts to locate and repatriate fugitives. In December 2024, they announced the creation of a coordinator of external affairs dedicated to tracking down wanted individuals. This initiative has already seen success, with two other fugitives recently apprehended, including Eric Pelletier, a suspected drug trafficker who had been on the run since March 22, 2024.
Turmel's criminal history is extensive and troubling. He first made headlines in May 2014 when he stabbed two individuals in a Lévis bar parking lot, resulting in a conviction for aggravated assault. Following his release, he quickly became involved in drug trafficking, ultimately rising to prominence within the BFM.
His criminal enterprise is believed to control a significant portion of the cocaine and methamphetamine distribution networks in Quebec City and Lévis. The SPVQ has described Turmel and his organization as being prepared to do whatever it takes to dominate the drug trade in the province.
Authorities initially suspected Turmel had fled to Spain after his escape but later tracked him to Italy, where he was ultimately captured. His right-hand man, Roobens Denis, was arrested in Portugal in February 2024 and repatriated to Canada in June of the same year. Denis's arrest was part of a broader crackdown on the BFM, which has seen numerous members detained.
As Turmel faces extradition back to Canada, he will likely confront a multitude of charges stemming from his criminal activities. The SPVQ has expressed its commitment to tackling the surge in violent crime associated with drug trafficking, and Turmel's return is expected to be a pivotal moment in their ongoing efforts.
In light of the violent tactics employed by the BFM, including torture and intimidation, the police have taken significant measures to address the rise in crime. A special wing has been established within the Quebec detention center to house BFM affiliates, ensuring they are kept separate from rival gangs like the Hells Angels.
With Turmel's capture, the authorities hope to disrupt the operations of the Blood Family Mafia and restore some level of order to the drug trade in Quebec. As the investigation continues, law enforcement officials remain vigilant, aware that the conflict between criminal organizations is far from over.
In conclusion, the arrest of Dave "Pic" Turmel marks a significant victory for law enforcement in Canada. His capture not only highlights the collaborative efforts between international police forces but also underscores the ongoing battle against organized crime in the province. As the judicial process unfolds, many will be watching closely to see how this high-profile case impacts the future of drug trafficking in Quebec.
