OPP Seizes $8M Illicit Cannabis Across Ontario, Quebec, Atlantic Provinces

An eight-month multi-province investigation named Project SHORT, led by the Ontario Provincial Police in collaboration with other provincial agencies and the Financial Transactions and Reports Analysis Centre of Canada, culminated in the seizure of over $8 million worth of illicit cannabis products. The operation targeted a network allegedly producing and distributing illegal cannabis from Ontario to New Brunswick, Quebec, and Nova Scotia, resulting in the confiscation of more than 750 pounds of dried cannabis, nearly 30,000 cannabis plants, edibles, vapes, contraband tobacco, suspected cocaine, and cash. Five individuals from the Greater Toronto Area and Brantford have been charged with a total of 18 offences, including possession for the purpose of distributing and selling illicit cannabis, as well as cocaine trafficking. The investigation involved executing five search warrants across multiple locations in Ontario, including Etobicoke, Ohsweken, Scarborough, Brantford, and an illicit grow operation near Hamilton. The accused have been released pending future court appearances in Toronto. Authorities continue to seek public assistance regarding illegal cannabis sales and production.