News
Ottawa RCMP make arrests in a gun trafficking ring

Dec. 1, 2022, Ottawa, Ont. – The RCMP, Federal Policing, Transnational and Serious Organized Crime Section (TSOC) in Ottawa, with the assistance of the Ottawa Police Service (OPS), have dismantled a gun trafficking network that was allegedly distributing illegal handguns in the Ottawa area.

This investigation, led by the RCMP with the assistance of OPS, began in September 2021, and identified illegal handguns being imported from the United States and sold on the streets of Ottawa. The firearms included handguns and firearms with no serial numbers. These types of firearms are in high demand on the streets.

As a result of the investigation, three individuals have been arrested and are facing approximately 30 Criminal Code charges relating to the distribution, trafficking and possession of illegal firearms.

James Kongkhaw (39) and David Lafontaine (44) of Ottawa and Justin McPolin (46) of Toronto have been jointly charged with charges. James Kongkhaw of Ottawa faces an additional 15 firearm related offences. David Lafontaine of Ottawa faces an additional 5 firearm related offenses. Justin McPolin of Toronto faces an additional 5 firearm related offences.

The accused are scheduled to appear in court on December 1, 2022, at 00:00am/pm in the Ontario Court of Justice at 161 Elgin Street, Ottawa, Ontario.

“The proliferation of illegal handguns into the hands of organized criminals poses a threat to public safety. This joint investigation is an excellent example of how law enforcement collaboration and information sharing can disrupt the flow of illegal handguns onto our streets, leading to safer communities,” said Insp. Islam Issa, Detachment Commander, Ottawa Transnational Serious and Organized Crime – O Division.

“The Ottawa Police Service has strong relationships with our policing partners in the National Capital Region and support investigations that positively influence community safety.  Those involved in this form of criminality remain a proactive enforcement priority for the Ottawa Police Service,” said Supt. Jamie Dunlop, Serious and Organized Crime Directorate, Ottawa Police Service.