Drug trafficking investigation results in seizure of illicit drugs and two firearms

June 3, 2026

TB26020832 and TB26020814


A Thunder Bay Police Service drug trafficking investigation has led to the seizure of illicit drugs and two firearms.


As part of the investigation, the Emergency Task Unit and Intelligence Unit searched two homes on Finlayson Street.


During the searches suspected fentanyl, crack cocaine, cocaine, and two guns were seized.


The total street value of the drugs is approximately $19,755.


As a result of the investigation, 47-year-old David CAKE of Thunder Bay is facing the following charges:


  • Possession of firearm or ammunition contrary to prohibition order (six counts)
  • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – cocaine
  • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid
  • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime over $5,000
  • Knowledge of unauthorized possession of firearm (two counts)
  • Careless storage of firearm, weapon, prohibited device or ammunition (two counts)
  • Unauthorized possession of a firearm (two counts)
  • Possession of prohibited or restricted firearm with ammo

 

Douglas SHAFRANSKI, a 47-year-old from Thunder Bay, and Saceriya MOHAMED, a 31-year-old of Toronto, are also facing the following charges:


  • Possession of proceeds of property obtained by crime under $5,000
  • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking - cocaine
  • Possession of a Schedule 1 substance for the purpose of trafficking – opioid

 

CAKE was remanded into custody following his first court appearance.


SHAFRANSKI and MOHAMED were both released from custody with a future court date.

Fraud Friday: ATM cash-trapping scams

August 21, 2026
The Thunder Bay Police Service is reminding residents to be cautious when using automated teller machines (ATMs) following reports of a cash-trapping scam in other communities. No cases of this type have been reported to the Thunder Bay Police Service at this time. This advisory is being shared to help the public recognize the potential risk and take precautions. In a cash-trapping scam, a device is placed over or inside an ATM’s cash dispenser. The machine may appear to complete the withdrawal, but the cash is held by the device. A fraudster can then return and collect it after the customer leaves. Protect yourself: • Check the ATM for loose parts, unusual attachments, or signs of tampering. • Use ATMs in well-lit, high-traffic locations whenever possible. • If cash is not dispensed, do not leave immediately. Contact your financial institution using a trusted number and report the problem to the ATM operator. • Review your account and promptly report any transaction you do not recognize. If an ATM appears to have been tampered with, do not use it. Report suspicious activity to the Thunder Bay Police Service. If you have lost money or disclosed banking information, contact your financial institution immediately and report the incident to police and the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre (https://antifraudcentre-centreantifraude.ca/index-eng.htm).

Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into stolen vehicle leads to charges

August 20, 2026
TB26031063 A Thunder Bay Police Service investigation into the theft of a stolen motor vehicle has led to charges. On August 8, 2026, officers received a report regarding the theft of a vehicle from a business in the Central Avenue area on August 6, 2026. A review of video footage led to a suspect being identified. Officers located and arrested the suspect in the Ogden Street area on August 8, 2026. A search of the Rowand Street area that same day led to the stolen vehicle being located. As a result of the investigation, 32-year-old Selena SIMMONS from Thunder Bay is facing the following charges: • Theft of motor vehicle • Dangerous operation • Fail to comply with probation order The accused was remanded into custody following their first court appearance with a future court date.

Major Crime Unit investigation leads to manslaughter charges

August 19, 2026
TB26032479