A seemingly ordinary structure fire in a quiet, rural area north of Port Hope, Ontario, ignited a far-reaching investigation that ultimately uncovered a sophisticated illicit cannabis operation. Emergency crews responding to the blaze on 5th Line were alerted to something far beyond the flames – a hidden grow operation within the property.
The Port Hope Fire Department quickly notified the Ontario Provincial Police, setting in motion a complex inquiry that would span months. Detectives suspected the fire might be connected to illegal activity, and their instincts proved correct.
In December, the OPP launched a full investigation, quietly gathering evidence and building a case. This culminated last Thursday with a coordinated raid executed by the OPP-led Provincial Joint Forces Cannabis Enforcement Team and the Peterborough/Northumberland Community Street Crime Unit.
The search revealed a staggering quantity of illicit cannabis. Over 7,600 live plants were discovered, alongside a substantial 100 pounds of dried cannabis bud, indicating a large-scale, ongoing operation.
Eight individuals, all residents of the Greater Toronto Area, now face charges related to the illegal cultivation and distribution of cannabis. The accused include Duc Le, Hoang Nga, Thu Nguyen, Thi Nguyen, Ngyenthi Sang, Shua Tanf-Zhong, Zhonghua Ye, and Yin Yang, ranging in age from 28 to 52.
Each of the eight has been charged with unlawfully cultivating, propagating, or harvesting cannabis plants, as well as possession for the purpose of distribution – offenses under the Cannabis Act. They have all been released from custody with upcoming court dates scheduled for February 26th in Cobourg.
Authorities are urging anyone with information regarding illegal cannabis sales or production to come forward. Tips can be reported directly to the OPP at 1-888-310-1122, or anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
