Ottawa police have confirmed that a man wanted in connection with a 2024 homicide in Little Italy has been arrested in Türkiye. Gibriil Bakal, 28, was taken into custody by Turkish authorities on June 5, 2026, following a joint effort between the Ottawa Police Service and international partners.
Details of the Homicide
The shooting occurred on July 14, 2024, on Champagne Avenue South in Ottawa's Little Italy neighbourhood. Jama Roble, 32, was found dead at the scene. Police identified Bakal as a suspect and issued a Canada-wide warrant for his arrest on charges of second-degree murder.
International Collaboration
The Ottawa Police Service worked with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Interpol, and Turkish law enforcement to locate and apprehend Bakal. He was arrested without incident in Istanbul. Extradition proceedings are expected to begin shortly.
Police have not released further details about the circumstances of the arrest or Bakal's activities since the homicide. The investigation remains ongoing.
Community Impact
The Little Italy community was shaken by the 2024 shooting, which occurred in a residential area. Residents expressed relief at the news of the arrest. “We hope this brings some closure to the family of Jama Roble,” said a local community leader.
Ottawa police thanked the public for tips that aided the investigation. They urge anyone with additional information to contact the homicide unit.
