Ottawa police have raided an illegal cannabis and tobacco shop on Preston Street for the second time in a week, arresting a 25-year-old man who now faces charges under three separate federal laws.
Members of the Centretown Neighbourhood Resource Team, assisted by the Tactical Section, executed a Criminal Code search warrant at a retail location on the 200 block of Preston Street on October 29, 2026, according to an Ottawa Police Service news release. The warrant was part of an ongoing investigation into the illegal sale of cannabis, nicotine and other controlled substances.
It was the second search warrant police executed at the same address within seven days for similar offences.
An Ottawa man, 25, was arrested during the operation and faces multiple charges under the Cannabis Act, the Criminal Code and the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. He was released on an undertaking and is scheduled to appear in court at a later date, according to an Ottawa Police Service news release.
Earlier raid followed community complaints
The first warrant at the same Preston Street location was executed on October 23, 2026, after community complaints about the illegal sale of cannabis and nicotine products, police said.
That operation resulted in the seizure of approximately 4.79 kilograms of cannabis products, 40 vape devices, 14,285 contraband cigarettes and 95 cigars.
The 200 block of Preston Street sits in the heart of Little Italy, an area that draws steady foot traffic from residents, commuters and visitors to nearby businesses.
Police target illegal storefront sales
The Ottawa Police Service said it remains committed to addressing illegal storefront operations, which the force said undermine public safety, evade regulatory requirements and contribute to the illicit market for cannabis and tobacco products.
Police did not say whether further enforcement action is planned at the address, and no additional details about the accused or the specific charges were released.
Residents can view, download and interact with police data through the Community Safety Data portal at data.ottawapolice.ca, the release noted.
Police are also encouraging residents to register their information and security camera locations at CAMSafe.ca to support investigations.
Anyone with information about illegal cannabis or tobacco sales in their neighbourhood can contact Ottawa Police at 613-236-1222, extension 5366, for media inquiries.
