Thousands of cigarettes and nicotine products seized in illegal tobacco investigation

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Monday, October 26, 2026               1:00 p.m.

Ottawa — The Ottawa Police Service has laid charges following a proactive investigation into the suspected illegal sale of tobacco products at a business on Bank Street.

On October 15, 2026, officers from East Neighbourhood Resource Teams executed a search warrant under section 487 of the Criminal Code at a business located in the 2000 block of Bank Street.

During the search, officers seized:

·       More than 54,000 cigarettes

·       52 vaping devices

·       More than 4,800 nicotine pouches

·       Loose, unpackaged tobacco

·       Canadian currency

·       Cellphones and tablets

Melchisedekson Fresnel, 35, was charged with the following offences:

·       Selling unstamped and unpackaged tobacco, contrary to section 121.1 of the Criminal Code

·       Possession of proceeds of crime, contrary to section 354(1) of the Criminal Code

·       Obstructing a police officer, contrary to section 129 of the Criminal Code

Anthony Tenasco, 44, is currently wanted in connection with the same offences. He has not been charged at this time.

The investigation remains ongoing.

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