Thorold man and woman charged after police seize $186,000 in drugs

Niagara | Welland | Crime |

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Published March 2, 2023 at 4:17 pm

The stolen loaded 9 mm SIG Sauer pistol that Niagara Police found concealed between couch cushions in a living room during yesterday's raid. (Photo: NRPS)

A Thorold man and woman have both been charged after police raided two homes and a car in Welland and Thorold and seized $188,460 in illegal drugs.

Niagara Police began investigating drug sales that were being driven around in Welland and Thorold neighbourhoods.

Eventually, they identified two people operating from two locations and got search warrants for both houses and a 2020 Hyundai Sonata.

Just prior to the search warrants being issued, the police spotted the Sonata and tried to arrest the pair. However, the suspects took off and smashed into two separate police vehicles, causing $8,000 in damage.

However, subsequent searches of a home on Explorer Way in Thorold and another on King Street in Welland saw police seize the following:

  • A stolen loaded 9 mm SIG Sauer pistol, concealed between couch cushions in a living room. An additional three magazines and a total of 150 rounds of ammunition.
  • A drug processing and packaging station was located along with a quantity of fentanyl (suspected carfentanil) and crystal methamphetamine
  • A total of 433 grams of fentanyl and 434 grams of crystal methamphetamine with an estimated street value of $188,460
  • $3,300 in suspected crime cash

Michael Amo Mensah, 26, of Thorold has charged with four counts of illegal drugs for trafficking, two counts of suspected crime cash, three counts of various firearm charges, possession of crime cash under $5,000 and possessing a weapon while on probation.

He also faces charges in connection to the collision with Niagara Police vehicles.

Soheyla Amara Malik, 29, of Thorold has been charged with four counts of illegal drugs for trafficking, two counts of suspected crime cash, three counts of various firearm charges, possession of a stolen firearm and possession of crime cash under $5,000.

The pair were both held in custody for a video bail hearing today (March 2) at the courthouse in St. Catharines.

The charges have not been proven in court.

Anyone with information is asked to contact the lead detective by dialing 905-688-4111, option 3, 1003300.

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