A routine traffic stop related to cannabis possession in Mississauga has resulted in the seizure of a loaded Beretta handgun and the arrest of four young men — including a Ghanaian national — on August 30.
Officers from the Strategic and Tactical Enforcement Policing (STEP) unit conducted the stop near Mid Way Boulevard and Davand Drive, suspecting violations of Canada’s Cannabis Control Act.
During a search of the vehicle, officers discovered a loaded, unauthorized Beretta firearm concealed inside.
According to Peel Regional Police, the individuals arrested include Rashad Inoussa, 23, and Eric Obeng, 22, both from Toronto; Peter Golding, 27, from Mississauga; and Ryan Osai, 24, from Tottenham.
All four remain in custody and are awaiting a bail hearing. They are facing multiple charges under the Criminal Code, including:
- Unauthorized possession of a firearm
- Knowledge of unauthorized possession of a firearm
- Possession of a loaded prohibited or restricted firearm
- Careless storage of a firearm or ammunition
- Possession of a prohibited device or ammunition
- Occupant of a vehicle knowing about an unauthorized firearm
- Possession of cannabis in a vehicle in a manner that made it readily accessible
Additionally, Ryan Osai — who was already under a court-imposed firearms prohibition — faces an extra charge of possession of a firearm contrary to a court order.
The firearm has been seized as evidence. Police have indicated that investigations are ongoing and could extend into other jurisdictions.
Authorities have stressed that this case reflects the broader public safety concerns surrounding illegal firearms, youth involvement in violent crime, and links to organized activity. Community leaders and law enforcement continue to express concern over cannabis misuse and the growing trend of gun-related offences among young adults, particularly within immigrant communities such as the Ghanaian diaspora in the Greater Toronto Area.
