Project Atlantis Drug Seizures have resulted in 267 arrests and the recovery of significant quantities of fentanyl, cocaine and crack cocaine during a four-month public-safety initiative in downtown Oshawa.
Durham Regional Police launched Project Atlantis in the spring as a coordinated enforcement and community-engagement effort intended to address drug trafficking, crime and public disorder in the city’s downtown core.
Between April and July 2026, officers made 267 arrests, issued 225 provincial offence notices, responded to 218 calls for service and completed 289 visits with businesses and community organizations.
Police seize fentanyl, cocaine and cash
A central focus of the initiative has been disrupting the sale and distribution of illegal drugs that police say contribute to addiction, violence, victimization and community disorder.
During the first four months of Project Atlantis, officers seized approximately 45 grams of fentanyl, 674 grams of cocaine and 12 grams of crack cocaine. Police also recovered more than $10,000 believed to be proceeds of crime.
The figures reflect the combined results of targeted enforcement, intelligence-led investigations and visible patrols throughout downtown Oshawa.
Police said the initiative uses a phased approach that includes education, public engagement, increased visibility and enforcement rather than relying exclusively on arrests.
Bicycle, foot and UTV patrols increased
Officers assigned to the Central East Division Community Resource Unit completed more than 1,300 hours of bicycle patrol between April and July.
They also conducted approximately 160 hours of foot patrol and 64 hours of patrol using a utility terrain vehicle.
The UTV allows officers to reach multi-use paths, parks, waterfront areas and green spaces that may be difficult to access using conventional police vehicles.
Police have said the increased visibility is intended to discourage illegal activity while making officers more accessible to residents, business owners and visitors in the downtown area.
Nearly 100 additional hours were devoted to youth and school engagement.
Partnerships support downtown initiative
Project Atlantis is being delivered through a partnership involving Durham Regional Police, the City of Oshawa, municipal bylaw enforcement and Oshawa Corporate Security.
Police said the coordinated approach allows the participating organizations to share information, respond to recurring public-safety concerns and strengthen relationships with residents and local businesses.
The initiative was created in response to concerns involving crime, homelessness, addiction and disorder in the downtown core.
Regional Councillor Tito-Dante Marimpietri said when the program launched that addressing those challenges requires collaboration and consistent action from multiple agencies.
The Project Atlantis Drug Seizures represent only one part of the initiative. Police said officers are also expected to continue outreach, education and proactive patrols while responding to calls for service.
Project continues through end of 2026
Project Atlantis is scheduled to remain active until the end of 2026.
Durham police said the results recorded during the first four months demonstrate the service’s commitment to proactive policing, enforcement and partnerships intended to improve public safety.
Further arrests and investigations may occur as officers continue gathering intelligence and responding to concerns in downtown Oshawa.
Anyone with information related to Project Atlantis can contact Sergeant Firth of the Central East Division Community Resource Unit at 1-888-579-1520, extension 1708.
Anonymous tips can be submitted to Durham Regional Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS or through its online reporting service. Tipsters may be eligible for a cash reward when their information assists an investigation.
The Project Atlantis Drug Seizures, arrests and patrol results cover activity from April through July. Police have indicated that additional results may be released as the initiative continues through the remainder of the year.
