Police seize 72 illegal handguns linked to cross-border trafficking probe in northern Ontario

An Ontario Provincial Police investigation into cross-border drug and weapons trafficking has led to the seizure of more than 70 illegal handguns from a tractor-trailer stopped in northern Ontario.

Police say the truck was pulled over at a Ministry of Transportation inspection station near Temiskaming Shores on September 11, following an eight-month probe that began in the Greater Toronto Area. Officers reportedly discovered 72 U.S.-made handguns and 66 prohibited devices during the search.

Investigators believe the shipment originated in Toronto and was part of a larger network involved in cocaine and firearms trafficking between Canada and the United States.

Two Brampton residents – 31-year-old Balraj Singh and 21-year-old Kawalbir Singh – have been charged with 72 counts of weapons trafficking. Balraj Singh also faces an additional charge related to cocaine trafficking.

Both accused remain in custody and are scheduled to appear in a Toronto court at a later date. Police say the investigation is ongoing as they work to trace the source and intended destinations of the seized firearms.