Peel Regional Police Seize Nine Illegal Guns in First Eight Weeks of 2026

Frontline officers with Peel Regional Police have seized nine firearms in just eight weeks so far in 2026, highlighting what officials describe as a growing concern over illegal weapons in the Greater Toronto Area.

Police say the guns were recovered during routine patrols and traffic stops across Peel Region, including in Brampton and Mississauga. In addition to the firearms, officers have also confiscated dozens of rounds of ammunition.

Deputy Chief Marc Andrews praised frontline officers for their vigilance, noting that traffic stops are increasingly high-risk situations.

“There is no such thing as a routine traffic stop anymore,” Andrews said, pointing to the frequency with which officers are encountering armed individuals during vehicle checks.

Latest Seizure in Brampton

The most recent firearm was seized on February 18 during a traffic stop in Brampton. Officers from 22 Division’s Community Intervention and Response Team (CIRT) recovered what police described as an illegal handgun from a vehicle.

The February 18 seizure marked the ninth firearm taken off the streets by frontline officers in 2026 alone.

Police officials say that each gun recovered potentially prevents future violence. Authorities emphasize that removing illegal firearms before they are used in crimes plays a critical role in reducing gun-related incidents across the region.

Ongoing Gun Crime Concerns in the GTA

Gun violence remains a major issue across the Greater Toronto Area. Law enforcement leaders argue that proactive policing — including vehicle stops and targeted patrols — is key to disrupting criminal activity before it escalates.

While the total number may seem small, police stress that nine firearms in eight weeks equates to more than one gun seized per week — a statistic they say underscores the persistent presence of illegal weapons in the community.

Investigations related to the seizures remain ongoing, and police have not released further details about charges in each case.

Officials are urging the public to report suspicious activity as part of broader efforts to curb gun crime in Peel Region.