Police seize suspected cocaine and fentanyl, arrest 8

May 28, 2025

A drug trafficking investigation has resulted in the arrest of eight people and the seizure of suspected illicit substances.

The Thunder Bay Police Service Intelligence Unit, with assistance from the Ontario Provincial Police Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, executed search warrants at two residences and a vehicle on Tuesday, May 27.

 

A vehicle identified as part of the investigation was stopped by police on Highway 11/17 east of Thunder Bay.

 

Two occupants of the vehicle were arrested and taken into custody.

 

Later in the day, the Thunder Bay Police Service Emergency Task Unit executed search warrants at two residences — one on Picton Avenue and the other on Donald Street.

 

Searches of those residences led to six people being arrested and taken into custody.

 

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

 

Renae SWEETLAND, 20, from Toronto, and Keston HINTON, 23, from Scarborough, are charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl), and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Over $5,000. HINTON is also charged with Failure to Comply with a Release Order x2.

 

Elijah GILMORE-BENT, 22, from southern Ontario; Chantal SHAPWAYKEESIC, 28, from Thunder Bay, and Andre Williams, 19, from Scarborough, are charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine) and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000.

 

Isaiah COOMBS-CAMPBELL, 19, from Pickering; Nakiel ATKINS, 26, from Oshawa, and Peter BOGDALA, 50, from Thunder Bay, are charged with Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Cocaine), Possession for the Purpose of Trafficking (Fentanyl), and Possession of Property Obtained by Crime Under $5,000.

 

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

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.
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