Investigation into illegal and non-Indigenous tobacco operation in Six Nations

File photo of Six Nations Police badge. (The Canadian Press Images/Francis Vachon)

Search warrants were carried out Thursday morning at what was believed to be an illicit tobacco operation on Six Nations of the Grand River.

Six Nations Police called it the result of an “extensive” investigation.

“[It] involves non-Indigenous criminal organizations exploiting Indigenous rights and lands,” a media release said. “The illicit profits generated from these operations have not been invested back into or benefited the community.”

The Ontario Provincial Police’s Contraband Tobacco Enforcement Team was asked to assist with the search at Seneca Road, between Townline and First Line.

Residents, meantime, were urged to stay away from the area.

“There will be a significant police presence necessary to preserve public safety and apprehend individuals,” the media release said. “Temporary restricted areas may be established to ensure officer and public safety.”

No information was shared about any arrests or what, if anything, was found at the property.

In an update at 3 p.m., Six Nations Police said that stretch of Seneca Road would remain closed until further notice.