An investigation into the distribution of illicit drugs in St. Catharines has led to two arrests and the recovery of nearly $150 thousand worth of drugs and a loaded handgun.

Niagara officers say that on Monday they arrested one suspect in the area of Niagara St. and Church St. who was found with over 350 grams of suspected cocaine, 91 grams of suspected methamphetamine, and 68 grams of suspected fentanyl.

The suspect has been identified as Abdul Bangura, 26, of Scarborough and faces three charges of possession with the purpose of trafficking.

Bangura was held in custody until a bail hearing was held yesterday, after which he was taken into the custody of Ontario Correctional Services.

READ MORE: Police seek missing man in St. Catharines’ Twelve Mile Creek

In a separate incident on Tuesday, police arrested the driver of a white Hyundai Tucson in the area of Lake St. near Carlton St.

Through a search of the vehicle, officers recovered a loaded handgun, 10 rounds of ammunition, over 530 grams of suspected cocaine and nearly 70 grams of suspected fentanyl. Additionally, just short of $1000 of Canadian currency that is believed to have been obtained through crime.

Thirty-two-year-old resident of Scarborough, Malcolm Cassels, has been identified as the suspect and faces nine charges in connection with the arrest.

Cassels attended a bail hearing Thursday where he was taken into the custody of Ontario Correctional Services.

Anyone with information about this investigation is asked to contact detectives at 905-688-4111, dial option #3, extension #1009552.

READ MORE: 60-year-old man wanted for break-in at Niagara retirement home