Over $200M in Cannabis Plants Seized in Tyendinaga Raids

BREAKING: In a significant crackdown, Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have seized over 118,000 illicit cannabis plants valued at an estimated $201 million during raids across the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. This operation, spanning the past two months, is part of a broader investigation into organized crime.

Authorities launched a series of raids at 10 locations, leading to the arrest of 24 suspects facing a total of 53 charges. The raids commenced in early October, with police executing search warrants at six sites. The suspects hail from various cities including Toronto, Belleville, Windsor, and Duncan, B.C.. Notably, six individuals are from the Tyendinaga community, while seven have “no fixed address.”

During the first week of October alone, police confiscated 46,700 cannabis plants, estimated to be worth more than $79 million, equating to roughly $1,700 per plant. An OPP spokesperson confirmed this valuation considers the plants’ size, growth stage, and expected yield.

The investigation also unveiled a troubling aspect of this criminal network. Alongside the cannabis, police discovered 3.7 million contraband cigarettes and 35,600 kilograms of cut tobacco, valued at an additional $9.8 million. These findings highlight the extensive illicit activities occurring within the territory.

Earlier in September, OPP conducted raids at four locations, arresting 10 individuals linked to a similar organized crime initiative. Six of these suspects were not from the Tyendinaga community, raising concerns about outside exploitation. During those raids on September 23-24, police seized 72,000 cannabis plants worth approximately $122 million, alongside firearms and other criminal assets valued at around $530,000.

Acting Sgt. Chris Brinklow from the Tyendinaga Police Service stated, “These operations have enriched organized crime while offering no benefit to our people.” He emphasized the detrimental impact of non-community members exploiting the land for profit. The investigations have also revealed significant environmental damage, including the unlawful diversion of water from the Bay of Quinte and illegal dumping sites.

As this situation continues to develop, authorities are urging the community to remain vigilant against organized crime. The OPP and Tyendinaga Police Service are committed to ensuring the protection of their territory and its resources.

Stay tuned for further updates as police continue to address this urgent situation. This ongoing investigation underscores the critical need for community awareness and cooperation in combating organized criminal activities.