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West NRT enforcement results in closure of two unlicensed cannabis dispensaries
Back to SearchFOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: Thursday, February 26, 2026 9:20 a.m.
(Ottawa) – The Ottawa Police Service (OPS) executed two search warrants at unlicensed cannabis dispensaries in the city’s west end on February 20, 2026, following reports that they were operating without licenses contrary to the Cannabis Control Act.
At approximately 9:25 a.m., members of the West Neighbourhood Resource Team (NRT), with support from the Central Neighbourhood Resource Team, Tactical Unit and Drug Unit, carried out a Provincial Offences Act warrant in the 200 block of Richmond Road. A large quantity of cannabis products, cigarettes and Canadian currency were seized.
One employee was charged under a Part III offence notice (Ontario Cannabis Control Act s.15(1) and s.6(1)).
That same day, officers executed a second warrant at another unlicensed cannabis store in the 300 block of Athlone Avenue; however, the dispensary had already closed.
Both unlicensed dispensaries were shared by the same landlord.
Investigations into unlicensed establishments remain ongoing. The OPS will continue working with regulatory and enforcement partners to ensure compliance and community safety, in alignment with its strategic vision of being a trusted partner in the community.
| Authorized sale of cannabis |
| Under section 6 of the Ontario Cannabis Control Act, the sale or distribution of cannabis by anyone other than an authorized retailer is prohibited. Legal cannabis in Ontario is subject to strict regulatory oversight. Furthermore, section 13 of the Act prohibits landlords from knowingly allowing their property to be used for illegal cannabis activities. Penalties for violating these provisions are significant. Upon a first conviction, individuals may face fines ranging from $10,000 to $250,000, imprisonment of up to two years less a day, or both. Corporations are subject to even steeper fines. |
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