Record fentanyl seizure in Windsor leads to major trafficking charges

OPP officials allege: A joint investigation between the Ontario Provincial Police and Windsor Police Service has resulted in the largest fentanyl seizure in OPP history.

Police say 46 kilograms of suspected fentanyl were seized as part of “Project ROTHERHAM,” an ongoing drug trafficking investigation in Windsor that began in the fall of 2024. Two people are now facing multiple Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act charges.

According to investigators, the accused were identified as key members of a drug trafficking network with ties to known criminal organizations. On Sept. 25, 2025, officers executed three residential search warrants and three vehicle warrants in Windsor, with assistance from multiple specialized OPP and Windsor police units. A subsequent warrant was later executed at another residence in the city.

In total, police seized suspected fentanyl, cocaine, heroin, prescription pills, firearms, cash, and other drug paraphernalia, with an estimated street value of $6.5 million. The fentanyl alone represents about 460,000 street-level doses.

“Fentanyl is a national enforcement priority. We are working with our partners across Ontario, and beyond, to stop the flow of this deadly drug into the communities we serve,” said OPP Commissioner Thomas Carrique. “The seizure of more than 20 cellular devices in this investigation highlights the need to urgently address dated lawful access legislation to protect Canadians from criminal networks trafficking fentanyl. We will continue to lead, to collaborate, and to take enforcement action against those who threaten the safety of our communities. Project ROTHERHAM is a clear example of what we can accomplish when we work together.”

“Just months ago, the OPP announced the largest seizure of fentanyl in our history. Today, Project ROTHERHAM surpasses that seizure by several kilograms,” said OPP Chief Superintendent Mike Stoddart of the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau. “The prevalence of this dangerous drug is a public safety issue that law enforcement takes seriously, and we will work together across jurisdictions, across provincial borders and even international borders, to dismantle and disrupt those who choose to engage in trafficking this deadly drug. We are united in our enforcement efforts.”

“This operation has a direct impact on the City of Windsor. Removing this volume of fentanyl from our streets saves lives,” said Windsor Police Deputy Chief Jason Crowley. “It’s a powerful example of what we can achieve through strong partnerships — locally and provincially. Together, we are protecting our communities and sending a strong message: drug traffickers will be held accountable.”

Police say the investigation into the source of the fentanyl is ongoing.

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