Mississauga nightclub suspended after string of violence, warnings from police

A Mississauga nightclub has been shut down for two weeks in the wake of violent incidents in the form of targeted shootings that resulted in a warning from police.

In August, Peel Regional Police issued a notice to the public citing heightened risks following numerous reports of violence, most involving firearms. Authorities said officers responded to more than two dozen calls to HER/Entice Ultra Nightclub and the surrounding area on Eglinton Avenue West.

This preceded a shooting outside the nightclub on September 4, leaving a man in critical condition and another with minor injuries. Police also said a stray bullet went through the window of a restaurant nearby, but it was empty, and nobody else was hurt.

Mississauga’s director of enforcement says officials issued a notice of suspension to Entice Ultra Club/HER Nightclub on Thursday.

“The suspension takes effect Friday, September 9 at 12:01 a.m. and will be in place for 14 days until September 22 at noon,” Mike Foley said in a statement to CityNews.

“During the suspension period, Entice Ultra Club/Her Nightclub must cease operations and will be provided with conditions they must comply with to retain their Adult Entertainment Operating Licence and Eatery Licence.”

Police say they’ve seized six firearms and investigated four separate shootings in the area. In one incident on August 8, a traffic stop in the area of the nightclub resulted in the arrest of three men, and several loaded firearms were confiscated.

On July 24, three suspects were arrested following an early morning shooting outside the nightclub. One month earlier, shots rang out at the exact location, and police say they are looking to identify several suspects in connection with that incident.

Mississauga Mayor condemns violence, supports suspension

Mayor Bonnie Crombie says the city had no choice but to close the Mississauga nightclub, noting the safety risks posed to the public.

“As a city, we are doing what is within our power and jurisdiction to address the ongoing safety concerns and help keep our residents safe,” Crombie said in a statement to CityNews.

“Gun and gang violence has no place in our city and threatens the lives of not only those involved but the safety of innocent bystanders who may find themselves in the wrong place at the wrong time.”

Crombie says Peel cops have responded to over two dozen incidents at the nightclub or surrounding areas involving illegal guns, gangs, drugs and disorderly behaviour.

“This behaviour has become so concerning that they recently issued a public safety alert urging people not to attend this establishment. I ask residents to continue to heed to this advice and urge the owners to comply with this suspension,” the Mayor added.

“I will continue to prioritize public safety and thank Peel Police and City by-law for their efforts to keep residents safe and find solutions to protect the community and prevent violence in our community.”