THUNDER BAY – Regional News – A significant drug seizure by Thunder Bay Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) has led to the arrest of three individuals following a traffic stop in Shuniah, east of Thunder Bay. Officers located a large quantity of suspected cocaine, Canadian currency, and weapons during the search.
On Tuesday, September 2, 2025, at approximately 4:38 p.m., Thunder Bay OPP, with assistance from the Canine Unit and the Community Street Crime Unit (CSCU), conducted a search of a vehicle stopped along Highway 11-17. The investigation led to the seizure of:
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407 grams of suspected cocaine
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$2,985 in Canadian currency
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Drug trafficking paraphernalia
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A weapon deemed dangerous
The seizure is another reminder of the persistent threat posed by drug trafficking in Northwestern Ontario—and the ongoing efforts by police to disrupt criminal networks operating in the region.
Three Ontario Men Face Multiple Charges
The following individuals have been charged under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) and the Criminal Code of Canada:
Mohammed ABDALWAHAB, 41, of London, Ontario:
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Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
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Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
Abdalwahab was held for a bail hearing, later released, and is scheduled to appear in Thunder Bay Court on October 2, 2025.
Kemoy JACKSON, 20, of Mississauga, Ontario:
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Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
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Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
Jackson remains in custody and is scheduled to appear in court on September 4, 2025.
Havord McKENZIE, 34, of North York, Ontario:
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Possession of a Schedule I Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking – Cocaine
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000
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Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
McKenzie also remains in custody, with a court appearance set for September 4, 2025.
What the Law Says: Penalties for Drug Trafficking and Related Offences
Under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act and the Criminal Code of Canada, those convicted of these offences face serious consequences, including:
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Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Schedule I – Cocaine):
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Maximum penalty: Life imprisonment
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Courts may impose mandatory minimum sentences depending on circumstances (e.g., trafficking near schools or involving weapons)
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Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000:
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Maximum penalty: 2 years imprisonment (if prosecuted by indictment)
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Up to 6 months and/or fine (if prosecuted summarily)
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Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose:
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Maximum penalty: 10 years imprisonment
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These charges are treated seriously by the courts, especially when drug trafficking is tied to organized criminal activity, public safety concerns, or the presence of weapons.
Help Keep Northwestern Ontario Communities Safe
Illicit drugs continue to endanger the health, safety, and stability of communities across Thunder Bay and surrounding areas. From overdoses to drug-fuelled violence and property crime, the ripple effects are far-reaching.
Residents are urged to report any suspicious or illegal drug activity to help law enforcement dismantle trafficking operations and prevent further harm.
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Call the OPP at 1-888-310-1122
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To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online at ontariocrimestoppers.ca
