Moose Factory, ON –  Northern Ontario Crimebeat – Two men from southern Ontario have been arrested and charged with drug trafficking offences in Moose Factory First Nation.

Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) officers responded to a disturbance call at a residence on Quachegan Street on Saturday, November 2nd, 2024. Police received information that suspected drug trafficking was occurring at the home, potentially involving individuals from outside the community. It was also reported that young children were present in the residence.

Upon entering the home, officers found two male suspects, one of whom attempted to provide a false name. Both suspects were arrested without incident.

A search of the residence led to the seizure of various suspected illicit drugs, including methamphetamine, fentanyl, hydromorphone, oxycodone, and codeine. Police also seized cash, two knives, and drug paraphernalia.

Charges and Potential Penalties:

The following individuals were charged:

• Mustafa Rasheed Ekiz, 19, of Toronto:

  • Possession of methamphetamine and fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking: Trafficking charges carry severe penalties, including potential imprisonment, depending on the type and amount of drugs involved.
  • Carrying a concealed weapon and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose: Penalties can include fines and/or imprisonment.
  • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000: Penalties can include fines and/or imprisonment.
  • Obstruct Peace Officer: This charge relates to obstructing or hindering a police officer in the execution of their duty. Penalties can include fines and/or imprisonment.

• Jasdeep Parhar, 30, of Kitchener:

  • Possession of methamphetamine, hydromorphone, oxycodone, codeine, and fentanyl for the purpose of trafficking: Trafficking charges carry severe penalties, including potential imprisonment, depending on the type and amount of drugs involved.
  • Carrying a concealed weapon and possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose: Penalties can include fines and/or imprisonment.
  • Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000: Penalties can include fines and/or imprisonment.
  • Obstruct Peace Officer: This charge relates to obstructing or hindering a police officer in the execution of their duty. Penalties can include fines and/or imprisonment.

Presumption of Innocence:

It is important to remember that both Ekiz and Parhar are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Ekiz has been released with conditions and a future court date. Parhar’s release status was not provided.

It is important to note that all accused are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court law.

This incident highlights the ongoing efforts of NAPS to combat drug trafficking and ensure community safety in Moose Factory First Nation.

Keeping Your Community Safer from Drugs and Drug Overdoses

Often today we see the results of powerful and dangerous drugs in Northern Communities. Drug overdoses and death are all sadly too common. Keeping these death dealers our of our communities means a safer community.

Here are some ideas to keep in mind. However realize tht YOU are not law enforcement, you can simply report what you see to police.

Unusual Activity and Behavior

• Increased foot traffic and short visits to a residence at all hours.
• People lingering in cars or on street corners, particularly if exchanges are observed.
• Frequent arrival and departure of vehicles, especially if they don’t belong to residents.
• Residents who seem secretive or avoid contact with neighbors.
• New faces coming and going from a residence regularly.

Suspicious Vehicles and Circumstances

• Unfamiliar vehicles, especially with out-of-town license plates, parked near a residence for short periods.
• Vehicles making frequent stops or driving slowly through the neighborhood.
• People arriving by taxi or ride-sharing services and leaving quickly.
• Signs of drug paraphernalia, such as small plastic bags, discarded needles, or pipes, in public areas.
• Unusual odors emanating from a residence, such as strong chemical smells.

Changes in Property and Resident Behavior

• A sudden increase in security measures, such as new fences, security cameras, or guard dogs.
• Windows blacked out or covered.
• Residents who appear to have a sudden influx of cash or expensive possessions.
• Neglect of the property, such as overgrown lawns or accumulating garbage.
• Increased noise levels, especially late at night.

Additional Red Flags and Reporting Concerns

• Offers to sell drugs or suspicious conversations overheard.
• Gangs or groups loitering in the area.
• Increased crime rates, such as theft or vandalism.
• If you suspect drug activity, report it to your local police department. You can often do this anonymously.
• Trust your instincts. If something feels off, it’s better to be cautious and report your concerns.