Methamphetamine seized by OPP during a drug trafficking bust on September 21, 2022. Photo supplied by OPPMethamphetamine seized by OPP during a drug trafficking bust on September 21, 2022. Photo supplied by OPP
Midwestern

OPP charge 26 from midwestern Ontario in drug trafficking bust (GALLERY)

Over 100 charges have been laid against 26 people across midwestern Ontario in a drug trafficking bust that turned up tens of thousands in illicit drugs and stolen property.

Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) in Grey, Bruce, Huron, and Perth counties began the investigation in May of this year after a significant increase in overdoses reported in the area.

On September 21, officers with a number of investigative branches including the Biker Enforcement Unit, Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit, Emergency Response Team, Canine and Tactics and Rescue Unit with assistance from the Owen Sound Police Service executed nine search warrants in Owen Sound, Huron, Perth, South Bruce and Grey counties.

"Throughout the course of this investigation, police seized approximately 160 grams suspected methamphetamine, 50 grams suspected fentanyl, 60 grams suspected cocaine, 6 grams suspected carfentanyl, more than 80 morphine pills and over 140 hydromorphone pills," a release from the OPP read.

Police estimate the street value of the drugs seized at $25,600.

In addition to the drugs, investigators also located stolen property valued at over $36,000, two firearms and $6,000 in cash.

The 26 individuals, both men and women ranging in age from as young as 21 to 66-years old have been charged with 111 offences including possession for the purpose of trafficking, unlawful possession of a schedule 1 substance, unauthorized possession of a weapon, possession of property obtained by crime, among other offences.

Eight of the accused were held in police custody while the remaining 18 were released on conditions.

They are scheduled to appear in court rooms in Owen Sound, Walkerton, Goderich and Stratford on various dates throughout October.

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