AK-47 Seized in Drug Squad Raid

Toronto Police Drug Squad members, with assistance from the Peel Regional Police Tactical Unit, executed a search warrant at a property in the Dundas St. W. and Hurontario St. area in Mississauga.

In addition to the AK-47 and drugs, police also seized five boxes containing 90 rounds of 7.62 millimetre calibre ammunition, two empty magazines for a 9 millimetre glock handgun, a bulletproof vest and Canadian currency.

Matthew Ward-Jackson, 26, of Mississauga, faces nine charges, including possession of a loaded weapon, drugs and proceeds of crime and four counts of failure to comply with recognizance.

Also charged are 53-year-old Joseph North, 30-year-old Carlos DeSouza and 32-year-old Roberta Lam of Mississauga, 25-year-old Bolton resident Niccolaas Marks, Stephanie Cima, 25, of Brampton and 28-year-old Michelle Camilleri of Caledonia.

They each face seven charges.

S/Insp. Randy Franks said the group was under surveillance for about a week.

ìWe are glad that the AK-47 is off the street,î he said.

Det. Richard Ryan led two teams that executed the warrant.

Franks said Ward-Jackson is known to police.

The accused appeared in court at Old City Hall on Jan. 5.