Guns and Gangs

Working together to keep Ottawa neighbourhoods safe

The Ottawa Police Service is committed to reducing gun violence and gang activity across the city. We know that safety starts with strong communities, and we value the information we receive from residents who are concerned about what’s happening in their neighbourhoods.

Your information can help prevent violence, protect vulnerable people, and hold those responsible accountable.

How to report concerns

If you witness drug, gun, or gang activity in your community, there are several ways to report it:

• Speak to someone in our Police Reporting Unit at 613-236-1222, extension 7300 (non-emergency reporting)
• Report online - Use our online reporting options to share information securely.
• Report anonymously to Crime Stoppers if you prefer not to give your name.

You do not have to be certain or have evidence to report a concern. Sharing what you see can make a real difference.

Our approach to guns and gangs

Reducing street-level violence is one of the Ottawa Police Service’s top priorities. OPS works with community partners across the city to address the causes of violence, prevent harm, and respond effectively when crimes occur.

The Ottawa Police’s citywide strategy for helping to reduce gun and gang violence is built on following four pillar approach

Neighbourhood cohesion

We support healthy, resilient neighbourhoods by strengthening relationships among children, families, and community members in areas affected by street-level violence.

Prevention

We focus on inclusive prevention through education, awareness, community policing, social development, and situational measures designed to reduce risk before violence occurs.

Intervention

We look for opportunities to support children, youth, and adults who are:

• At risk of becoming involved in gangs
• On the edge of gang involvement
• Looking to leave gang life

Enforcement and suppression

OPS carries out targeted, coordinated enforcement to disrupt and reduce violent activity. This work is sustained, intelligence-led, and focused on the areas and individuals causing the greatest harm.

Coordinated police response

To reduce gun and gang violence effectively, multiple OPS sections work together under shared protocols and mandates. This includes officers and teams from across the service, such as investigative units, frontline operations, neighbourhood policing, traffic services, and specialized units.

This coordinated approach ensures a consistent, citywide response to street-level violence.

Resources

Preventing gang involvement requires strong community supports. The following organizations provide programs and services that support youth, families, and communities in Ottawa:

• Youth Ottawa - Youth leadership and mentoring programs
• Christie Lake Kids - Free recreation and skill-building programs for children and youth
• Boys and Girls Club of Ottawa - Safe, supportive activities and opportunities for youth
• Big Brothers Big Sisters Ottawa - One-to-one mentoring relationships
• Kids Help Phone - Free, 24-hour, confidential support for young people across Canada