Two Arrested After Drugs Seized Following Weapons Call in Ginoogaming First Nation

GINOOGAMING FIRST NATION — Two men have been arrested and are facing charges after police responded to a weapons-related call and later executed a search warrant at a residence on Chapais Point Road in Ginoogaming First Nation.

The investigation is significant for Ginoogaming, Greenstone and surrounding Northwestern Ontario communities because fentanyl, cocaine and weapons-related calls can place pressure on families, emergency responders, health services and community safety resources.

Police Seize Fentanyl, Cocaine, Cash and Phone

In the early hours of May 6, 2026, officers with the Anishinabek Police Service and Ontario Provincial Police responded to a weapons-related call for service at a residence on Chapais Point Road.

Later that morning, police executed a search warrant at the residence.

The operation involved APS, APS Major Crime, the OPP Community Street Crime Unit, OPP Emergency Response Team and Nishnawbe Aski Police Service K9.

Police report the search resulted in the seizure of:

137 grams of fentanyl

159 grams of cocaine

One cellular device

$315 in Canadian currency

A 31-year-old man from North York and a 41-year-old man from Ginoogaming First Nation were arrested and are facing multiple charges.

Police say the investigation remains ongoing.

Charges Not Yet Fully Detailed by Police

The police release states that charges have been laid but does not provide the exact charge wording. NetNewsLedger will update this report if more specific charge information is released.

The charges have not been proven in court. Both accused are presumed innocent unless proven guilty in a court of law.

Legal Context: Drug Trafficking and Controlled Substances

Where police lay charges related to possession for the purpose of trafficking, those offences are generally prosecuted under section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. That section prohibits possessing a substance listed in Schedule I, II, III, IV or V for the purpose of trafficking. Fentanyl and cocaine are Schedule I substances.

For Schedule I substances, trafficking or possession for the purpose of trafficking can carry a maximum penalty of life imprisonment if the Crown proves the charge in court. Actual sentences depend on the substance, quantity, role of the accused, prior record, aggravating and mitigating factors, and the full circumstances of the case.

Legal Context: Weapons and Proceeds Offences

Because the investigation began as a weapons-related call, police and Crown counsel may consider Criminal Code provisions depending on the evidence. Section 88 of the Criminal Code addresses possession of a weapon, imitation weapon, prohibited device, ammunition or prohibited ammunition for a purpose dangerous to the public peace or for the purpose of committing an offence. The maximum penalty is 10 years in prison if prosecuted by indictment.

If money or property is alleged to be connected to crime, section 354 of the Criminal Code addresses possession of property obtained by crime. If the value is more than $5,000, section 355 provides for a maximum sentence of 10 years in prison if prosecuted by indictment. Where the value is $5,000 or less, the available penalties are lower and depend on how the Crown proceeds.

Regional Impact for Ginoogaming and Greenstone

Ginoogaming First Nation is located near Longlac, along a key transportation corridor in Northwestern Ontario. Drug enforcement investigations in the region often affect more than one community, particularly where opioids, cocaine and alleged trafficking activity intersect with housing, mental health, addiction services, policing and family safety.

Fentanyl is especially dangerous because small amounts can cause fatal overdoses. Police seizures involving fentanyl are also a safety risk for officers, first responders and anyone who may come into contact with unknown substances.

How to Provide Information

Anyone with information about this incident is asked to contact investigators at 807-876-1606.

Information can also be submitted through the Anishinabek Police Service online reporting tool or anonymously through Ontario Crime Stoppers.