Five Suspects Face Multiple Charges Following Investigation by Nishnawbe Aski Police

FORT HOPE, ON – A police operation in Fort Hope First Nation has resulted in the arrest of five individuals and the seizure of drugs, firearms, and cash. The arrests follow a search warrant executed by the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service’s (NAPS) Intelligence Unit and Emergency Response Team, assisted by officers from the Fort Hope First Nations detachment.

The search took place on the morning of Sunday, October 27, at a residence suspected of being involved in drug trafficking activities. Police discovered a quantity of suspected Oxycodone pills, cocaine, two firearms, around $18,000 in cash, and various items commonly associated with drug trafficking.

Remember, in Canada, all individuals are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.

Charges Laid Against Fort Hope Residents

The five suspects, all from Fort Hope First Nation, are facing multiple charges related to drug trafficking, firearm possession, and possession of property obtained by crime. Details of the charges are as follows:

• Samson WABANO, 18
  • Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Oxycodone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Maria WABANO, 18
  • Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Oxycodone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Robert Aaron Craig WABANO, 39
  • Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Oxycodone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
  • Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm (x3)
  • Careless Storage of a Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device or Ammunition (x3)
• Tyra Ricki Michelle WABANO, 20
  • Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Oxycodone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Sophia June Esther YELLOWHEAD, 38
  • Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Oxycodone for the Purpose of Trafficking
  • Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
  • Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm (x3)
  • Careless Storage of a Firearm, Weapon, Prohibited Device or Ammunition (x3)

Legal Proceedings and Potential Penalties

Samson Wabano appeared in court on October 28 and was remanded into custody, with future court dates scheduled. The remaining suspects were released from custody with conditions and are also scheduled to appear in court at later dates.

If convicted, the accused individuals could face severe penalties, including lengthy prison sentences for drug trafficking and unauthorized firearm possession. Charges of possessing property obtained by crime over $5,000 may also result in significant fines or additional jail time, depending on the case’s outcome.

The Nishnawbe Aski Police Service continues its efforts to combat drug trafficking in the region, working closely with local communities to enhance public safety and address crime effectively.