Police seize $77K in drugs and a handgun from Thunder Bay hotel, three suspects face major charges

THUNDER BAY – CRIME REPORT – A significant drug bust in Thunder Bay has led to the arrest of three individuals and the seizure of a loaded firearm and narcotics with an estimated street value of $77,000.

On March 25, 2025, members of the Thunder Bay Community Street Crime Unit, in collaboration with the Bail Support Team and Thunder Bay OPP Detachment, executed arrests at a local hotel as part of an ongoing drug investigation in the Northwest region.

Following the arrests, a search was conducted, resulting in the seizure of:

• 450 grams of suspected crystal methamphetamine

• 67 grams of suspected cocaine

• 58 grams of suspected fentanyl

• 34 hydromorphone pills

• 95 Oxycodone pills

• A Glock .45 calibre handgun with ammunition

• Additional evidence of drug trafficking

The seizure marks a substantial blow to illegal drug activity in Thunder Bay and the surrounding area.

Individuals Charged

Louis MALETTE, 45, of Thunder Bay, faces multiple charges under the Criminal Code and Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), including:

• Possession for the purpose of trafficking (cocaine, fentanyl, methamphetamine, hydromorphone)

• Possession of property obtained by crime under $5,000

• Unauthorized possession and unsafe storage of a firearm

• Possession of a firearm contrary to a prohibition order

Ashley WALLICK, 40, also of Thunder Bay, is facing nearly identical charges, including drug trafficking and weapons offences.

Eugene WANAKAMIK, 38, of Thunder Bay, is similarly charged with trafficking offences and unlawful firearm possession.

All three individuals remain in custody at the Thunder Bay District Jail and Correctional Centre and are scheduled to appear in Ontario Court of Justice at a later date.

Community Impact
This investigation highlights the ongoing efforts by law enforcement to curb drug trafficking and firearm violence in the Northwest region. The presence of fentanyl and other high-risk substances underscores the ongoing dangers posed by the illicit drug trade in Thunder Bay.