OPP officials allege: Police have seized an additional 46,700 illicit cannabis plants and laid 53 charges against 24 people following a week of enforcement on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory earlier this fall.
The seizures, carried out between Oct. 1 and Oct. 7, stem from an ongoing investigation into illicit cannabis production sites tied to non-Indigenous organized crime networks. The latest enforcement follows search warrants executed Sept. 23 and 24 that resulted in the dismantling of four illegal grow operations, the seizure of 72,000 cannabis plants and 21 charges against 10 individuals.
Police continued the operation with seven search warrants at six locations, involving units from the Ontario Provincial Police, Tyendinaga Police Service and several specialized OPP teams, along with assistance from Canada Border Services Agency. Officers seized 46,700 plants valued at more than $79 million, four pounds of dried cannabis, a quantity of THC extract, 3.7 million contraband cigarettes, 35,600 kilograms of fine-cut contraband tobacco and commercial-level cigarette production equipment. Investigators also seized offence-related property valued at roughly $358,400.
Information about the accused and specific charges is included in an attached addendum. The OPP Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit is now reviewing potential proceeds of crime linked to the sites.
“The OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau continued to work closely with the Tyendinaga Police Service to disrupt illegal cannabis operations linked to organized crime. This latest enforcement action reflects our shared commitment to community safety,” said Chief Superintendent Mike Stoddart of the OPP.
Acting Sgt. Chris Brinklow of the Tyendinaga Police Service said the community’s cooperation has been critical throughout the investigation.
“We are grateful for the continued patience and support of our community as this investigation continued,” he said. “The second phase of enforcement has concluded, further exposing the extent to which non-community members have exploited our land for profit. The enforcement between September 24 and October 7 resulted in the seizure of more than 118,000 illicit cannabis plants valued at more than $200 million from numerous illegal production sites in our community. A total of 19 non-community members have been charged. These operations have enriched organized crime while offering no benefit to our people. The Tyendinaga Police Service remains committed to protecting our territory and ensuring that those who violate our rights and responsibilities are held accountable.”
Police are asking anyone with information about illegal cannabis production or sales to contact the OPP or Crime Stoppers.
