MORE THAN 1.5 KG OF DRUGS SEIZED IN THUNDER BAY
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GTA Residents Charged
(THUNDER BAY, ON) - Two Greater Toronto Area (GTA) residents are facing charges following the seizure of more than 1.5 kg of illicit drugs in connection with a drug trafficking investigation in Thunder Bay.
In June 2026, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP)-led Provincial Guns and Gangs Enforcement Team (PGNG), including members from the Thunder Bay Police Service (TBPS) and Nishnawbe Aski Police Service (NAPS), conducted an intelligence-led investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity in Thunder Bay. The investigation suggested that illicit drugs were transported into Thunder Bay by bus from the GTA.
On Tuesday, June 23, 2026, PGNG executed a search warrant at a motel in Thunder Bay. A vehicle stop was also conducted near Dryden by members of the OPP Community Street Crime Unit and OPP Emergency Response Team.
As a result, officers seized the following with approximate quantities:
- 1.1 kg suspected crack cocaine
- 500 g suspected cocaine
- C$770
- US$300
The estimated street value of the drugs seized is $282,000.
Dwight JOHN, age 29 of York, was arrested and charged with the following Criminal Code (CC) and Controlled drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) offences:
- Breach of probation, s. 733.1(1) CC
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking - cocaine, s. 5(2) CDSA
The accused was remanded into custody following a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay on Friday, July 10, 2026.
Deshawn YARDE, age 29 of Mississauga, was arrested and charged with the following offences:
- Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000, s. 354(1)(a) CC
- Possession for the purpose of trafficking - cocaine, s. 5(2) CDSA
The accused was remanded into custody following a bail hearing and is scheduled to appear before the Ontario Court of Justice in Thunder Bay on Friday, July 17, 2026.
The investigation remains ongoing.
The PGNG in North West Region consists of members from the OPP, TBPS and NAPS, with support from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.