Drugs Seized Valued at More Than $139 Million

 A multi-jurisdictional, cross-border investigation resulted in the seizure of nearly 1.7 tonnes of illegal drugs, including suspected cocaine, methamphetamine and opium marking one of the most significant drug seizures in a single investigation in Ontario. This intelligence-led joint forces investigation, named Project Bay, focused on disrupting the importation and trafficking of illegal drugs with a nexus to the international border.

In January 2025, the Windsor Police Service (WPS) initiated a drug-trafficking investigation. In February 2025, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) collaborated with WPS to advance the investigation and identify the cross-border trafficking network. As the scope and complexity of the investigation expanded, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) was engaged to support the cross-border and interprovincial components of the investigation through the Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST) and the OPP-led Border Drug Interdiction Task Force (BDIT).

As the investigation progressed, law enforcement partners provided critical support. US agencies, including Homeland Security Investigations (HSI) and the Drug Enforcement Administration, assisted with international aspects of the investigation, while the Toronto Police Service (TPS) and Peel Regional Police (PRP) provided operational and investigative support.

The investigation revealed the use of a broker-style model within the commercial transportation sector. It leveraged established connections to facilitate the cross-border movement of illegal drugs, including the arrangement of drivers to knowingly transport illicit commodities within legitimate supply chains.

On Thursday, June 25, 2026, 18 search warrants were executed at residences and businesses in Windsor, Corunna, LaSalle, Brampton and Kleinburg, by members from:

• OPP Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau
• WPS
• WPS Emergency Services Unit
• OPP Tactics and Rescue Unit
• OPP Emergency Response Team
• OPP Canine Unit
• OPP Community Street Crime Unit
• CBSA
• TPS
• PRP
• PRP Tactical and Rescue Unit
• London Police Service Emergency Response Unit
• Chatham-Kent Police Service Emergency Response Team
• Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Canine

On Tuesday, July 14, 2026, two search warrants were executed in Markham and Caledon.

On Monday, July 20, 2026, two search warrants were executed in Brampton.

Throughout the investigation and as a result of the search warrants, the following items were seized with approximate quantities:

• 973 kg suspected cocaine
• 660 kg suspected methamphetamine
• 49 kg opium
• 230 oxycodone tablets (5mg)
• 17 firearms, including an anti-tank rifle
• Ammunition
• Prohibited devices and weapons including brass knuckles, magazines and baton
• C$80,000
• US$10,000
• One vehicle as offence-related property
• High-end jewellery
• Money counters
• 43 cell phones and six laptops

The estimated street value of the drugs seized is more than $139 million, representing a significant disruption to the illegal drug supply chain in Ontario.

The OPP Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit has been engaged to investigate any proceeds of crime offences and assist in the seizure of offence-related property.

Twenty-one individuals have been charged with 102 offences contrary to the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Nineteen of the accused were arrested and two remain outstanding. Arrest warrants have been issued. Information on the accused and their respective charges are included in the attached Addendum of Charged Persons.

Cocaine is not produced domestically and enters Canada through international drug trafficking networks. Methamphetamine seized in recent OPP investigations originates from multiple sources and is either produced in clandestine domestic laboratories or imported into Canada. The investigation into the source and full scope of the trafficking network remain ongoing.

Anyone with any information about illegal firearms or the possession, manufacturing or trafficking of illicit drugs should contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or Crime Stoppers anonymously at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or ontariocrimestoppers.ca.

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West Nile virus circulates between birds and some mosquito species. People can become infected through the bite of a mosquito that has fed on an infected bird. The risk is highest in late summer. The health unit recommends taking the following steps to prevent mosquito bites:

• Use an insect repellent approved for use in Canada and follow the label instructions.

• Wear light-coloured clothing and cover exposed skin by wearing long sleeves, long pants, socks and a hat when mosquitoes are present.
• Remove standing water around your home to reduce mosquito breeding.
• Make sure window and door screens are in good condition to keep mosquitoes out.

Most people infected with West Nile virus do not get sick, but the virus can cause serious illness in some cases. Symptoms can include fever, muscle weakness, stiff neck, confusion, severe headache and sensitivity to light. In rare cases, it can lead to serious neurological illness. Anyone with symptoms should seek medical care.

The health unit continues to monitor mosquito activity by trapping and testing mosquitoes and checking for larvae at selected locations across Simcoe Muskoka during the summer.

For more information about West Nile virus, visit smdhu.org/WNV.

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Muskoka Authors Association is delighted to present the 13th Annual Tall Pine Tales, a beloved community series showcasing the rich and diverse literary talent of Muskoka. Spanning five engaging events throughout the summer and fall, Tall Pine Tales invites audiences to gather, listen, and be transported by the written word.

Conceived by the late Melody Richardson, this enduring series continues to honour her vision of nurturing and celebrating local writers—both emerging and established. Each event features a lively lineup of readers sharing works that range from historical fiction and heartfelt poetry to humorous memoirs, suspenseful short stories, and captivating novel excerpts.

These evenings are a reminder of the incredible creative spirit that lives right here in our communities. There is something truly special hearing a story from the author’s own voice.

This year’s series began at the Gravenhurst Public Library on May 27, with three more opportunities ahead for audiences to experience the magic of Tall Pine Tales. Here is the remaining schedule.

• Gravenhurst Public Library – Saturday, August 22, 1 p.m.-3 p.m. 
• Featuring readings by: Jane Korosi, Wendie Donabie, Cindy Watson, Lori Knowles, Simon Hally, Jenny Cressman, Maria Duncalf-Barber, Dianna Rodgers Allen with Emcee, Beverly Earley 
• Huntsville Public Library- Tuesday, September 15, 6 p.m. – 8 p.m.
• Bala Community Centre – Monday, October 19, 6 p.m.- 8 p.m.

Admission is by donation, with proceeds supporting the purchase of books and supplies for the host libraries. Refreshments will be served, making each gathering as welcoming as it is inspiring.

Whether you are a devoted reader, an aspiring writer, or simply someone who loves a good story, Tall Pine Tales offers an unforgettable way to connect with the creative heartbeat of Muskoka.

For more information and updates, visit the Muskoka Authors Association Facebook page or contact Bev Brewer at 647-515-4149.

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Dr. Mehdi Dadashi, an experienced family physician with 20 years of clinical experience in family medicine and emergency care, will begin serving the Ramara community this fall. His arrival represents another important step in addressing local health-care needs and expanding access to primary care services for residents.

“Welcoming Dr. Dadashi to Ramara is tremendous news for our community,” said Mayor Basil Clarke. “Together with Dr. Mo, Dr. Dadashi will help create a strong primary care network in Ramara, providing residents with greater access to family medicine and connected health services close to home. We are grateful to our partners at the Couchiching Ontario Health Team and the Orillia & Lake Country Physician Recruitment Committee for their continued support in helping bring physicians to our community.”

Dr. Dadashi will join Dr. Anoushka Mohammadiankhorasani (Dr. Mo), who has now opened her practice at the Ramara Medical Centre in Brechin, and is connecting with patients. Together, the two physicians will help expand access to primary care services for residents and strengthen local health-care options closer to home.

Dr. Dadashi brings 20 years of clinical experience in family medicine and emergency care. Throughout his career, he has provided comprehensive primary care to patients of all ages, including chronic disease management, preventive care, health promotion, and urgent medical care. He has also worked extensively in hospital and emergency settings managing acute and complex medical conditions. In addition to joining the Ramara Medical Centre, Dr. Dadashi will provide services at Orillia Soldiers’ Memorial Hospital.

“Recruiting physicians to rural communities requires collaboration, innovation and a strong local commitment,” said Dr. Kim McIntosh, Primary Care Physician Lead for the Couchiching Ontario Health Team. “The addition of Dr. Dadashi further strengthens our local health-care system and enhances our ability to connect residents with comprehensive, team-based care close to home.”

“I am honoured and excited to join the Ramara community and become part of its growing health-care team. Family medicine allows physicians to build lasting relationships with patients and families while supporting their health through every stage of life,” said Dr. Dadashi. “I have already experienced the warmth and welcoming spirit of the community and am grateful for the support shown by local leaders and health-care partners. I look forward to serving the residents of Ramara and working alongside my colleagues to provide accessible, compassionate, and high-quality care close to home.”

The Ramara Medical Centre will operate as part of the Couchiching Ontario Health Team Primary Care Network, where local health-care providers work together to improve access to integrated, high-quality care. Through this partnership, patients benefit from access to a broader team of health-care professionals, including allied health supports provided through the Couchiching Family Health Team.

How to Become a Patient:

Priority will continue to be given to Ramara residents as part of this local physician recruitment initiative.

Dr. Mo is now connecting with patients and will be conducting meet-and-greet appointments. Health Care Connect continues to actively match patients with Dr. Mo and will begin matching patients with Dr. Dadashi.

Residents who have not yet registered and are interested in becoming a patient of Dr. Mo or Dr. Dadashi should register through Health Care Connect at:

Phone: 1-800-445-1822 or call 811
Website: ontario.ca/HealthCareConnect

Residents who are already registered with Health Care Connect do not need to register again and should monitor their email for further information. If your contact information has changed, please contact Health Care Connect to ensure your information is up to date.

Residents who are already attached to a primary health care provider and are interested in becoming a patient of the new physicians in Ramara are encouraged to register with Health Care Connect. Patients do not need to leave their current physician to go on the Health Care Connect list.

Individuals requiring assistance with the registration process may contact Emily at the Couchiching Ontario Health Team at 705-329-3649 ext. 241.

For more information on health-care services in Ramara, visit ramara.ca/HealthCare.

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On July 20, 2026, members of the Southern Georgian Bay OPP responded to a reported theft at a construction and quarry site on Lafontaine Road East in Tiny Township.

The investigation determined that sometime between July 18 and 19, a suspect entered the property on a motorized electric-style tricycle, accessed secured storage containers, and removed copper electrical wiring from a piece of heavy equipment.

The theft caused approximately $60,000 in damage, rendering the equipment inoperable and disrupting the company’s operations.

Investigators later identified a suspect who had allegedly sold stolen copper and brass to a local scrap metal recycler. Police subsequently recovered copper and brass that was confirmed to have originated from the construction site.

As a result of the investigation, Kevin Sovey, a 55 year old of Penetanguishene, was arrested and charged with the following Criminal Code offences:

• Break and Enter a Place with Intent to Commit an Indictable Offence
• Mischief to Property Over $5,000
• Theft Over $5,000
• Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000
• Trafficking in Property Obtained by Crime
• Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime

The accused was held in custody pending a bail hearing before the Ontario Court of Justice.

The Southern Georgian Bay OPP reminds the public that thefts involving copper and other recyclable metals can have significant impacts on businesses, construction projects, and critical infrastructure. Police encourage the public to report suspicious activity involving construction sites, utility infrastructure, and scrap metal recycling facilities.

Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is asked to contact the Southern Georgian Bay OPP at 1-888-310-1122. To remain anonymous, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or submit information online.

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Former Fire Chief enters political arena in Gravenhurst

Severn Bridge resident Larry Brassard filed his nomination papers today at Gravenhurst Town Hall to enter the upcoming race for a seat on Town Council.

Brassard is the second resident to run for election in the newly defined Ward 3.

“There are several important issues facing our community, and I’d like to provide some added common sense and experience to the discussions that are approaching”, he said. “Development is always a concern when we talk about environmental impact and the ecology of Muskoka, and my perspective is that the needs of the local community should always take precedence in discussions about where and how to grow.”

He pointed to other issues such as roads, the impact and cost of local government, and the growing concern about affordable housing and homelessness as being important to those in his neighborhood.

As a public servant for over 40 years, Brassard has observed firsthand how Councils and staff approach issues, and he believes he brings strong insight to the table on how staff, the public, and Councils can work together to achieve results that favour area ratepayers.
“Working with you; working for you” will be the underlying theme of my efforts if elected, and that starts with listening closely to what the community’s vision is for the future.”

Brassard’s first big attempt to engage the constituents in Ward 3 will be at the Severn Bridge fall fair on September 12th, where he will be present. After that, he plans to hit the streets!

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The day will feature an open skate and practice session where community members can watch a variety of NHL players showcase their skills in drills, practices, and a friendly scrimmage. Seating for up to 800 spectators will be available in the Muskoka Lumber Arena on a first-come, first-served basis.

Following the on-ice activities, young hockey fans will have the opportunity to meet the players during an autograph signing session in the Muskoka Leon’s Auditorium. The signing will be limited to 150 participants between the ages of 3 and 17 to allow the players to focus on their youngest supporters.

Pre-registration is required for the autograph session and will open on Monday, July 27, at 8:30 a.m. at bracebridge.ca/programs.

Event Details

• Date: Thursday, July 30
• Time: 10 to 11:30 a.m., doors open at 9:30 a.m.
• Location: Muskoka Lumber Community Centre, 56 Salmon Avenue
• Open skate and practice: Free, first-come, first-served seating for 800 spectators. Participants are encouraged to bring a non-perishable food item in support of the Manna Food Bank.
• Autograph signing: Limited to 150 participants aged 3 to 17; pre-registration is required.

For more information and to register for the autograph signing, visit bracebridge.ca/programs.

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Every week, Canadian Blood Services needs approximately 18,000 booked blood donation appointments to keep pace with hospital demand. Over the past six weeks, appointments have fallen short by 1,500 to 2,500 each week, requiring a draw on existing inventory to meet patient needs. While a seasonal decline in donations is expected during the summer months and factored into planning, appointment bookings have fallen well below typical summer patterns. Donors of all blood types are needed now to help replenish the blood supply and keep pace with hospital demand.

“We’ve seen the blood supply decline by about 20 per cent in just a matter of weeks and we need more donors to come forward now to reverse this decline,” said Ron Vezina, vice-president, donor engagement and corporate reputation, Canadian Blood Services. “Blood has a shelf life of only 42 days, so today’s donation will quickly make its way to a patient. We need to ensure hospitals have the blood they need for everyday care and emergencies, especially as we head into the August long weekend when trauma cases and other urgent care needs could see an increase.”

To provide more opportunities to give, additional weekend appointments have been added at many donor centres and whole blood donation appointments are available at several plasma donor centres.

“A strong, healthy Canada depends on people showing up for one another,” added Vezina. “Whether you’re a new or returning donor, now is the time to book an appointment. Better yet, bring a friend and experience what you get when you give together. It’s a rewarding way to connect during the summer.”

If you’ve already booked an appointment, keeping it is essential. If you can’t make your appointment, cancelling in advance allows someone else to donate in your place.

Eligible donors are urged to book an appointment as soon as possible at blood.ca, through the GiveBlood app or by calling 1-888-2-DONATE. If you’re unable to donate today, please make an appointment sometime this summer.

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On Monday, July 20, 2026 at 12:45 p.m., a member of the Central Region Traffic Incident Management Enforcement (T.I.M.E.) team was conducting patrols on Highway 400 in Georgian Bay Township and conducted a traffic stop to investigate a Highway Traffic Act Offense. The officer arrested the driver, and a subsequent search of the vehicle located a firearm.

Police have charged 42-year-old Michael Phillips of Sudbury, ON with the following:

• Operation while Prohibited
• Drive Vehicle with Cannabis Readily Available
• Driving while under Suspension
• Possession of Weapon for Dangerous Purpose
• Unauthorized Possession of a Prohibited or Restricted Firearm
• Possession of Firearm contrary to Prohibition Order
• Tampering with Serial Number of a Firearm
• Along with several related firearms offenses

He was held in custody and will appear in the Ontario Court of Justice in Bracebridge on July 24, 2026 to answer to his charges.

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