Targeted ByWard Market Safety Initiative Results in Multiple Arrests and Drug Seizures

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Wednesday, August 19, 2026, 10:45 a.m.

(Ottawa) — The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) completed a targeted, one-day initiative known as Project Intersect on August 11, aimed at addressing community concerns regarding violent incidents, open drug use, and public disorder near the intersection of George Street and Cumberland Street.

This was a joint operation involving the Community Outreach, Response and Engagement (CORE) Unit and the Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT), backed by intelligence from the Crime Intelligence Analysis Unit (CIAU).

As a result of the targeted operation, officers achieved the following enforcement outcomes:

• Drug Offenses: 7 individuals were arrested under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA), resulting in 7 charges for possession of a Schedule I substance and 2 charges for carrying a concealed weapon.
• Outstanding Warrants & Repeat Offenses: 1 wanted individual was arrested and charged with 16 counts of theft and 1 count of breach of probation. 2 additional individuals were arrested on outstanding warrants, leading to breach of probation charges.
• Liquor & Property Enforcement: 2 Provincial Offence Notices were issued under the Liquor Licence and Control Act, and 4 trespassing incidents were resolved through verbal warnings.

Following the operational phase, the City of Ottawa partnered with the OPS to conduct a targeted cleanup of the immediate area.

"Project Intersect reflects our continued commitment to hearing community feedback and taking direct action to keep our neighbourhoods safe," said Superintendent Kenneth Bryden. "Local residents, business owners, and community members expressed strong support for the heightened police presence and direct response to public safety issues in the area."

The Ottawa Police Service will continue to deploy targeted patrols and work alongside community partners to maintain safety, order, and well-being across all Ottawa neighbourhoods.

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CONTACT:   
Ottawa Police Service Media Relations  
Tel: 613-236-1222, ext.  5366