In a significant enforcement action, two motorists were arrested on October 4 in The Nation township, Ontario, following a traffic stop by the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) on Highway 417. The incident highlights ongoing efforts to combat impaired driving and drug-related offenses in the region.

At around 7:40 p.m., OPP officers noticed a vehicle speeding along the highway and initiated a stop. Upon approaching the vehicle, officers conducted an investigation that included the use of an Approved Screening Device (ASD) for alcohol testing. The results indicated that the driver, 35-year-old Mohamed Altashani from Montreal, Quebec, had failed the test.

During the investigation, officers discovered an open container of alcohol inside the vehicle, along with a substance believed to be cocaine, which raises serious concerns about the driver’s ability to operate the vehicle safely. Consequently, Altashani was taken to the OPP detachment for further testing.

Following the investigation, Altashani was charged with several offenses under various acts, including:

• Operation while impaired - blood alcohol concentration (80 plus) under the Criminal Code (CC)

• Operation while impaired - alcohol under the Criminal Code (CC)

• Possession of a Schedule 1 substance - cocaine under the Controlled Drug and Substance Act (CDSA)

• Speeding under the Highway Traffic Act (HTA)

• Driving a motor vehicle with liquor readily available under the Liquor Licence Control Act (LLCA)

• Driving a motor vehicle with an open container of liquor under the Liquor Licence Control Act (LLCA)

In addition to the charges, Altashani received a 90-day driver’s licence suspension, and his vehicle was impounded for a period of seven days. This action demonstrates the OPP’s commitment to keeping Ontario roads safe and holding drivers accountable for their actions.

The incident also involved a passenger who allegedly obstructed police during the traffic stop, though further details regarding charges against this individual have not been released.

As the OPP continues its efforts to reduce impaired driving incidents, this case serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible driving and the potential consequences of disregarding traffic laws. With the holiday season approaching, it is crucial for all motorists to remain vigilant and refrain from impaired driving to ensure the safety of all road users in Ontario.