Dozens of alcohol bottles, hookah containers seized from downtown site

Police seized alcohol and hookah containers in a search warrant last week after an investigation of an unlicensed establishment.

Officers said on Dec. 6, they searched a business in the 100 block of Laurier Avenue West on Dec. 6. The blitz was supported by the force’s tactical unit, Ottawa fire and the Central Neighbourhood Resource Team.

In the operation, over 110 large bottles of alcohol were seized, 25 sealed hookah/shisha tobacco containers and Canadian currency.

“The OPS continues to work with partner agencies to address illegal after-hours and unlicensed establishments operating in the city,” the press release reads. “These coordinated enforcement efforts aim to support public safety, uphold regulations, and maintain a fair environment for licensed businesses.”

This is the second large-scale bust police carried out on the street this year in relation to the business.

The first happened on April 12 in partnership with the Alcohol and Gaming Commission of Ontario.

Police were investigating compliance with the Liquor Licence and Control Act and the Smoke-Free Ontario Act. The probe revealed to officials that the venue was operating unlicensed and actively serving alcohol and using hookahs indoors.

The bust resulted in 398 bottles of liquor being taken and the business shutting down. Fines were issued for violations of the acts, a press release notes.

Charges were also laid to the owners of the establishment.