Investigation results in arrests of 4 people, seizure of illicit substances

September 19, 2025

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Four people face drug trafficking charges after police executed a series of warrants.


The Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit had been conducting an investigation into suspected drug trafficking activity taking place in the city. As a result of that investigation, warrants were obtained and executed on Thursday, September 18.


Members of the Intelligence Unit located two suspects in a parking lot in the 700 block of Memorial Avenue. One of the suspects attempted to flee and destroy a cell phone in his possession. Both individuals were arrested and taken into custody.


Warrants were then executed an address on Cumberland Street North and at residences on Machar Avenue, Windsor Street, and Crossbow Street. Two additional suspects were arrested and taken into custody.


Through the investigation, police seized quantities of suspected cocaine, crack cocaine, and fentanyl, along with cash and paraphernalia consistent with drug trafficking.


The total estimated street value of the seized drugs is $116,000, while the amount of cash seized exceeds $15,000,


Amir ABDELRAHMAN, 61; of Brooks, AB., is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, and Obstruct a Peace Officer.


Maurice BARTLEY, 57, of Thunder Bay, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000, and Breach of an Undertaking.


Ralston COLEY, 49, of Mississauga, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine) and Possession of Proceeds of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000.


Carin UPTON, 45, of Thunder Bay, is charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine) and Possession of a Schedule I substance (Fentanyl).


The accused individuals appeared in court on Friday and have been remanded into custody with future appearance dates.

Police remind public of off-road vehicle rules

September 19, 2025
The Thunder Bay Police Service is urging the public to ensure safe usage of off-road vehicles and to follow applicable legislation and bylaws for their use. Recently, Thunder Bay Police Service officers responded to an incident in a rural area of the city where two children under the age of 16 were operating all-terrain vehicles on a roadway and were involved in a collision. Fortunately, the incident did not result in serious injuries. The parent was served with provincial offence notices for allowing a motor vehicle to be operated on a highway with no insurance, and for permitting unlicensed persons to drive a vehicle. Provincial legislation requires off-road vehicles to be registered, having a displayed licence plate, and be insured. Drivers and passengers must wear an approved motorcycle helmet. To be used for on-road riding, drivers must be at least 16 years old and have at least a valid G2 or M2 licence. For off-road riding, drivers must be at least 12 years old or directly supervised by an adult. Municipalities have different rules for the use off-road vehicles. The City of Thunder Bay does not permit off-road vehicles to be used on roadways. Road safety is a shared responsibility.

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The Thunder Bay Police Service has responded to several calls relating to bears in recent weeks in areas throughout the city. Here are some important things to remember: Do not feed bears. Keep food waste in secure containers. Keep a safe distance from bears. If you encounter a bear, slowly back away while keeping it in sight. If a bear is in a tree, do not surround it. Not every bear encounter is an emergency. Calls to police should be made in situations where a bear poses an immediate safety threat or is displaying aggressive or threatening behaviour. For non-emergency encounters, call the Ministry of Natural Resource's Bear Wise line at 1-866-514-2327. More information about Bear Safety can be found here: https://www.ontario.ca/.../prevent-bear-encounters-bear-wise