Investigation leads to seizure of loaded handgun, cocaine and fentanyl

April 24, 2025

Police have arrested a southern Ontario male on drug trafficking and weapons charges after seizing quantities of suspected illicit substances and a loaded handgun.

Members of the Thunder Bay Police Service Emergency Task Unit executed a search warrant at a Tupper Street residence on Wednesday, April 23, as a result of an Intelligence Unit investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity.

 

A male suspect was located and taken into custody after being arrested.

 

Officers seized quantities of suspected cocaine and fentanyl, along with the firearm, cash, and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.

 

The total estimated street value of the seized drugs is about $175,000.

 

Rige RICHARDS, 23, of Brampton, is charged with the following:

•             Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine)

•             Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl)

•             Possession of Proceeds of Crime under $5,000

•             Possession of Prohibited or Restricted Firearm with Ammunition

•             Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm

•             Careless Storage of a Firearm

•             Knowledge of Unauthorized Possession of a Firearm

•             Possession of Prohibited Device

 

The accused appeared in court on Thursday and has been remanded into custody with a future appearance date.

October 28, 2025
This is a subtitle for your new post
October 27, 2025
Over the past few months, there has been a meaningful shift in how the community sees the work we do. While our commitment to public safety has never changed, it's encouraging to see people recognizing and supporting it. From the comments shared at Chat with the Chief events in the community, to the encouraging response to our planned Thunder Bay Police Service Gala, it’s clear that people want to be part of something positive. They recognize the dedication of our officers and the important role policing plays in keeping our community safe. At recent “Chat with the Chief” events, I’ve had the opportunity to hear directly from many of you. Residents have expressed a desire to see more officers in the community. We share that goal. While we continue to work toward increasing our presence, our current focus remains on addressing Drugs, Guns, and Gangs—a critical priority, given how deeply interconnected these issues are and the harm they cause in communities. While our role is to enforce the law, lasting community safety involves more than police presence alone. We know that community organizations and service providers play a vital role in helping people live healthy, productive lives and reducing the need for police intervention. By addressing the root causes of crime and crisis—through prevention, support, and connection—these partners provide critical services and alternative response models that contribute to a safer, healthier city. That’s why I’m proud to be participating in Thunder Bay’s first Community Safety & Well-Being (CSWB) Forum—a free event where residents, service providers, and community leaders will come together to talk about what it truly means to build a safer, stronger Thunder Bay. The Forum is a chance to share ideas, hear diverse perspectives, and help shape the refreshed CSWB Plan for 2026–2030—a community roadmap grounded in prevention, connection, and support, so everyone can live well, feel safe, and thrive. It will be held Thursday, November 13 from 6:00 p.m. – 9:00 p.m. at the Thunder Bay Community Auditorium.  Everyone is welcome. I look forward to continuing this important conversation with all of you.
October 23, 2025
TB25042205