OPP seize $107K in drugs, charge 3 in northern Ont. drug bust

An investigation that began this fall has ended with three Espanola residents facing drug and weapon charges.

Three individuals from Espanola, Ont., are facing multiple drug and weapons-related charges after Ontario Provincial Police executed a search warrant last week, seizing an estimated $107,700 in illicit drugs.

OPP’s Manitoulin detachment, assisted by the United Chief and Councils of Manitoulin (UCCM) Anishnaabe Police canine unit, carried out the search at a residence on Bois Street in Espanola on Dec. 4.

Investigation launched in fall

The investigation began earlier in the fall of 2025 after police received information regarding suspected drug trafficking at the residence.

“Police seized an amount of suspected cocaine with an estimated street value of $101,500, an amount of suspected crystal methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $5,500, (and) an amount of suspected fentanyl with an estimated street value of $700,” said OPP in a news release Tuesday.

Officers also seized approximately $16,700 in cash, a taser, and a dirt bike and snowmobile believed to be stolen.

Three held in custody

A 33-year-old woman, a 43-year-old man, and a 42-year-old woman, all from Espanola, were taken into custody. Each of the three have been charged with three counts of drug trafficking, drug possession, three possession of property obtained by crime offences, possession of a weapon for a dangerous purpose, possession of a prohibited device or ammunition and failing to comply with a probation order.

The male accused faces additional charges for failing to comply with a release order and possession of a firearm or ammunition contrary to a prohibition order. The 33-year-old woman was also charged with failing to comply with an undertaking.

All three accused were held in custody and appeared in bail court on Friday.

Public encouraged to report suspicious activity

Authorities are encouraging community assistance in similar investigations.

“Working together, we can all contribute to keeping our communities safe,” said OPP.

Community members are encouraged to report any suspicious or drug-related activity to their local OPP detachment, local police service or anonymously through Crime Stoppers.