Ontario Police Seize Over $122 Million in Illicit Cannabis on Indigenous Land
Ontario police have seized over $122 million in illicit cannabis from Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory, charging ten individuals linked to organized crime
Key Points
- 1Ontario police seized $122 million in illicit cannabis
- 2Ten individuals charged, six non-community members involved
- 3Over 72,000 cannabis plants and firearms confiscated
- 4Illegal water diversion from Bay of Quinte stopped
- 5Environmental impact and exploitation of Indigenous land condemned
In a significant crackdown, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) have seized cannabis plants valued at more than $122 million from illegal production sites on Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. These sites were reportedly operated by non-Indigenous organized crime networks, with some involvement from community members. This operation highlights the ongoing challenges of illegal cannabis production and its impact on Indigenous lands
The investigation led to charges against ten individuals, six of whom are not from the Tyendinaga Mohawk Territory. Authorities confiscated over 72,000 illicit cannabis plants, firearms, ammunition, and other items during their raids. Additionally, police halted an illegal diversion of water from the Bay of Quinte, which was being used to support these operations, further underscoring the environmental damage caused by such activities
Chris Brinklow, acting chief of Tyendinaga police, emphasized the detrimental effects of these operations on the community and its environment. He noted that the financial gains were not reinvested locally but instead benefited organized crime networks. Brinklow condemned the exploitation of Indigenous lands, stating it is a serious violation of rights and responsibilities that will not be tolerated