Downtown Oshawa Crackdown Yields 250+ Arrests and Drug Seizures
A recent operation by Durham Regional Police Service (DRPS) in downtown Oshawa, known as Project Atlantis, has resulted in more than 250 arrests and the confiscation of cocaine, fentanyl, and cash over a span of four months.
Described by DRPS officers as a proactive enforcement and community engagement effort, the operation commenced in April and is set to continue until the end of 2026.
According to investigators, DRPS officers collaborated with community partners to tackle public safety issues through targeted enforcement, intelligence-led investigations, and ongoing interaction with residents, businesses, and community groups.
The primary focus of the operation was combatting the sale and distribution of illegal drugs in downtown Oshawa, as outlined in a press release.
From April to July, DRPS officers made a total of 267 arrests and seized approximately 45 grams of fentanyl, 674 grams of cocaine, 12 grams of crack cocaine, and more than $10,000 in illicit proceeds.
During the operation, officers dedicated over 1,300 hours to bicycle patrols, 160 hours to foot patrols, 64 hours to UTV patrols, and nearly 100 hours to engaging with youth and schools.
The increased police presence in downtown Oshawa, waterfront areas, trails, and parks through these patrols was highlighted in the release.