The Ottawa Police Service says it has broken up an illegal, after-hours business in the Industrial Park area of Ottawa this past weekend after complaints from the community. Ottawa police officers and members of Ottawa Fire Services executed a fire safety warrant at a property located on the 0 to 100 block of Bentley Avenue overnight between Saturday and Sunday. During the operation, police said approximately 125 people were evacuated and alcohol was seized. An Ottawa Police Service spokesperson told CTV News Ottawa the after-hours business was an illegal club where alcohol and tobacco were available for purchase. “The space being used was a rental space inside a commercial building that the tenant re-purposed to hold events, typically hosted by promoters and featuring DJ’s or theme parties,” police said. The venue was deemed to be unsafe. “Fire investigators identified numerous fire and life safety violations at the property and have launched a continuing investigation into the circumstances surrounding the operation,” police said in a news release on Tuesday. “The property owner has been notified of the violations.” Police say one person was charged with obstruction of justice. The investigation remains ongoing. “Illegal after-hours establishments can present community safety risks. Ottawa Police, Ottawa Fire Services, and partner agencies remain focused on identifying and disrupting these types of operations and will continue to take enforcement action where appropriate,” police said. Police say you can report information about after-hours establishments by calling 613-236-1222, extension 7300, or online at ottawapolice.ca/report.
