Traffic stop for speeding in Timmins uncovers $30K in drugs, loaded gun, machete, four knives

Four people – including two young offenders – have been charged following a traffic stop this week on Highway 101 in the Timmins-area community of Hoyle.

South Porcupine Ontario Provincial Police said in a news release Wednesday that police stopped the vehicle for speeding at around 6:30 p.m. Aug. 19.

"Upon speaking with the driver, police observed a substance suspected to be cocaine and the four occupants of the vehicle were arrested," police said.

"A search of the vehicle incident to arrest was conducted, and police located and seized drugs suspected to be fentanyl, cocaine, crack cocaine and methamphetamine with a total estimated street value of $30,000."

In addition to the drugs, police also found a loaded handgun with an extended magazine, ammunition, a machete, four folding knives and four cellphones.

Two of the suspects are age 43, while the young offenders are ages 16 and 17. All are from Timmins.

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They are charged with numerous drug trafficking and weapons offences. The 43-year-old driver was also charged with speeding, driving with cannabis readily available and having an obstructed licence plate.

The young offenders were also charged with two counts of failing to comply with sentencing provisions and possessing a firearm while prohibited.

The two adults have been released and have a court date of Sept. 12 in Timmins. The young offenders remain in custody and will next appear before the Ontario Court of Justice on Aug. 26 in Timmins.

"Illicit firearms pose a serious risk to public safety," police said.

"They are often used by organized crime groups, including street gangs, to broaden and secure drug trafficking networks. They are also used in violent crimes including theft, intimidation, extortion and homicide."