A massive illegal cannabis operation has been shut down in Haldimand County, resulting in 16 arrests and the seizure of over $55 million worth of illegal cannabis.
On Wednesday, July 16, 2025, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) Provincial Joint Forces Cannabis Enforcement Team (PJFCET), along with the Emergency Response Team, Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau, and Community Street Crime Units, executed a Cannabis Act warrant at a rural property on Highway 3. Officers discovered a large greenhouse facility containing more than 107,000 illegal cannabis plants in various stages of growth, along with 950 pounds of dried cannabis bud.
The Provincial Asset Forfeiture Unit also seized offence-related property from the site, including grow lights, processing machinery, and other equipment tied to cannabis production.
Sixteen individuals were arrested and collectively charged with 32 offences under the Cannabis Act, including cultivating cannabis without authorization and possession for the purpose of distribution. Those charged include residents of North York, Brantford, Markham, and several individuals with no fixed address.
The accused were released and are scheduled to appear in court at a later date.
Police say the investigation is ongoing and part of continued efforts to dismantle large-scale, illegal cannabis operations in Ontario.