Two suspects arrested; drugs valued at $33,000 seized in ongoing trafficking probe
ATTAWAPISKAT FIRST NATION – REGIONAL CRIME UPDATE – A joint police operation by the Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS) Intelligence Unit and Emergency Response Team has resulted in the seizure of suspected fentanyl and methamphetamine during a targeted search in Attawapiskat First Nation.
The arrests occurred on the evening of Tuesday, October 7, 2025, after officers executed two search warrants at residential addresses within the community. The warrants were obtained as part of an ongoing investigation into drug trafficking activity in the James Bay region.
Following the searches, two individuals — a 30-year-old woman and a 34-year-old man, both from Attawapiskat First Nation — were arrested without incident. Police also seized a quantity of suspected fentanyl, methamphetamine, cash, and drug trafficking paraphernalia. The estimated street value of the drugs seized is $33,000.
Charges Laid and Legal Consequences
The 30-year-old female is facing three charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and the Criminal Code of Canada:
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Possession of Methamphetamine for the Purpose of Trafficking (CDSA 5(2))
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Possession of Fentanyl for the Purpose of Trafficking (CDSA 5(2))
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 (Criminal Code 354(1))
The 34-year-old male is charged with:
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Possession of Methamphetamine for the Purpose of Trafficking (CDSA 5(2))
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 (Criminal Code 354(1))
What These Charges Mean:
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Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (CDSA 5(2)) is a serious indictable offence. Upon conviction, a judge may impose a maximum sentence of life imprisonment, particularly if the drug in question is classified as a Schedule I substance — which both fentanyl and methamphetamine are. Courts may also consider aggravating factors, such as proximity to children or trafficking in First Nations communities, during sentencing.
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000 (Criminal Code 354(1)) can carry a maximum sentence of 10 years imprisonment, depending on whether the case proceeds by indictment or summary conviction. This charge typically involves proceeds believed to be directly linked to criminal activity, such as cash from drug sales.
Both individuals have been released on conditions and are scheduled to appear in court on December 4, 2025. Their identities have not been publicly disclosed, in accordance with NAPS policy, until the charges are formally sworn before the courts.
Public Safety and Ongoing Investigation
NAPS emphasized that the investigation remains active and ongoing, with additional charges or arrests possible as evidence is reviewed. The police continue to target drug trafficking operations that impact the safety and well-being of northern and remote communities.
Fentanyl, in particular, remains a critical public safety threat across Northern Ontario due to its high potency and risk of overdose. Even small quantities can be lethal.
Community members with any information about drug trafficking or suspicious activity are encouraged to contact local police or submit tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or online at www.p3tips.com.
