OPP officials allege: A major drug trafficking investigation by the Ontario Provincial Police has led to three arrests and the seizure of more than $1.28 million in illicit drugs, firearms, stolen vehicles, cash and other property.
The OPP’s Lambton County Community Street Crime Unit began investigating suspected drug trafficking on Walpole Island First Nation in April. On July 17, search warrants were executed at two residences in London with support from specialized and frontline OPP resources across the force’s West Region.
Officers seized large quantities of suspected fentanyl, cocaine and methamphetamine, along with multiple firearms, stolen vehicles, Canadian currency and other evidence linked to drug trafficking, police said.
Three London residents, two men in their late 20s and a woman, 28, face numerous charges under the Criminal Code, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Highway Traffic Act, including possession of prohibited or restricted firearms, possession of property obtained by crime, trafficking in fentanyl, cocaine and opioids, and using or making forged documents.
Two of the accused were remanded into custody and are scheduled to appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in London on Friday. The third was released and is set to appear in court on Sept. 14.
The operation involved OPP crime units from across the region, along with uniformed officers, the West Region Tactics and Rescue Unit, the Emergency Response Team, the Canine Unit, the Clandestine Laboratory Investigative Response Team and the Urban Search and Rescue CBRNE Team.
Walpole Island First Nation Chief Leela Thomas said the investigation reflects the importance of co-operation between law enforcement and the community.
“The safety and well-being of our community remains a priority for Walpole Island First Nation. We appreciate the collaborative efforts of law enforcement agencies in addressing illegal drug trafficking and related criminal activity that has a devastating impact on families and communities. This investigation demonstrates the importance of partnerships in protecting residents and holding those responsible accountable. Walpole Island First Nation Council remains committed to supporting initiatives that promote safer, healthier communities for future generations.”
Lambton County OPP Detachment Commander Insp. Ross Stuart credited co-ordination among multiple units and partners for the results.
“This investigation demonstrates the Ontario Provincial Police’s unwavering commitment to disrupting organized crime and protecting the communities we serve. The significant quantity of illicit drugs, firearms, stolen property and offence-related assets seized through this investigation represents a direct threat removed from our streets. This outcome is the result of outstanding collaboration between OPP units across West Region and our valued partners, including Walpole Island First Nation. Through intelligence-led policing and strong partnerships, we will continue to target those who profit from criminal activity and hold them accountable while enhancing the safety and well-being of our communities.”
Anyone with information is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477.
