Illegal after-hours business operation disrupted following community safety complaints
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Tuesday, September 22, 2026 9:30 a.m.
(Ottawa) — A joint operation by Ottawa Fire Services and the Ottawa Police Service has resulted in the disruption of an illegal after-hours business operation in Nepean following ongoing community complaints and public safety concerns.
Late Saturday night and into the early morning hours of Sunday, September 20, emergency and regulatory agencies executed a Fire Safety Warrant at a property located on the 0 to 100 block of Bentley Avenue.
The operation was led by Ottawa Fire Services and supported by members of the Ottawa Police Service, including Neighbourhood Resource Teams, Frontline Patrol officers, and RIDE Program officers. Additional support was provided by the City of Ottawa's By-law and Regulatory Services and Building Services, as well as the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario (AGCO).
Approximately 125 individuals were safely evacuated from the premises during the operation.
One individual was charged with Obstruction of Justice. Alcohol was seized as part of the investigation.
Fire investigators identified numerous fire and life safety violations at the property and have launched a continuing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the operation.
The property owner has been notified of the violations.
This operation demonstrates the importance of responding to community concerns and working collaboratively to address significant public safety risks. The success of the operation was made possible through strong cooperation among municipal, provincial, regulatory, and emergency service partners.
Illegal after-hours establishments can present community safety risks. Ottawa Police, Ottawa Fire Services, and partner agencies remain focused on identifying and disrupting these types of operations and will continue to take enforcement action where appropriate.
Residents, business owners, and community members are encouraged to report suspected illegal after-hours businesses and related activities so that appropriate action can be taken to address safety concerns and protect the community.
Report information about after-hours establishments to the OPS at 613-236-1222, extension 7300, or online at ottawapolice.ca/report.
Anonymous tips can be provided to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or crimestoppers.ca.
The investigation remains ongoing.
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Through the Community Safety Data portal data.ottawapolice.ca, members of the public can view, download, and interact with data released by the Ottawa Police Service.
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CONTACT:
Media Relations
Tel: 613-236-1222, ext. 5366
