WEBEQUIE FIRST NATION – Two individuals are facing drug trafficking charges following a targeted investigation and early morning search operation conducted by the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) in Webequie First Nation.
NAPS Executes Search Warrant in Early Morning Operation
On the morning of Thursday, March 20, members of the NAPS Intelligence Unit and the NAPS Emergency Response Team executed a search warrant at a residential address in Webequie First Nation. The warrant was obtained as part of an ongoing investigation by the NAPS Central Drug Enforcement Unit, which has been monitoring suspected drug trafficking activity in the remote northern community.
Cocaine, Cash, and Trafficking Paraphernalia Seized
During the search, officers located and seized a quantity of suspected cocaine, an undisclosed amount of cash, and drug trafficking paraphernalia consistent with distribution and sale of controlled substances. Two individuals who were present inside the home at the time of the search were taken into custody without incident.
Accused Released With Conditions Pending Court Appearance
An 18-year-old male and a 43-year-old female, both from Webequie First Nation, have each been charged with the following:
- Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
- Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
Both individuals have been released from custody with conditions and are scheduled to appear in court on future dates. In accordance with legal protocols, their names are being withheld until the charges are formally sworn before the court.
Ongoing Efforts to Disrupt Drug Activity in Northern Communities
This operation underscores NAPS’ continued commitment to combating the trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs in First Nations communities across Northern Ontario. Webequie First Nation, a fly-in community located roughly 540 kilometres north of Thunder Bay, has become a focus for law enforcement efforts aimed at improving public safety and reducing the impact of drug-related crime.
Community members are encouraged to report suspicious activity confidentially through local police or Crime Stoppers.
