Ollie Transport President Remains in India as Cleanup Order Stalls After N.L. Truck Crash
More than a year after a transport truck owned by Ontario-based Ollie Transport went over an embankment in Swift Current, Newfoundland and Labrador, spilling hundreds of litres of diesel, the company’s president, Harinder Singh, remains in India and out of reach of Canadian authorities. The provincial government is pursuing legal action against the company and Singh for failing to comply with a cleanup order.
Truck Crash and Environmental Concerns
On February 4, 2025, an Ollie Transport truck crashed near a Swift Current residence, releasing diesel fuel and debris. Resident Nancy Barrington described the scene as looking “like a war zone,” with truck tires, the cab, and bonnet remaining on site, along with the loss of mature trees. The spilled diesel has soaked into the ground, discoloring the grass.
Failed Cleanup and Legal Action
The provincial government issued a ministerial order in early March 2025 requiring Ollie Transport to clean up and remediate the site. When the company failed to comply, the province initiated legal proceedings. A Canada-wide arrest warrant was issued for Harinder Singh earlier in 2026, based on “reasonable grounds to believe that it is necessary in the public interest,” according to court documents obtained by CBC News.
Singh’s Absence and Substitute Service
Crown attorney Cory Binderup stated in a Clarenville courtroom in November 2025 that Singh is unlikely to return to Canada. Binderup also indicated that Singh was the driver of the truck at the time of the crash. Due to difficulties serving Singh with legal documents, the Crown intends to apply for substitute service, an alternative method of delivery.
Government Response and Ongoing Investigation
The provincial government, under the Progressive Conservative party, has affirmed its commitment to environmental protection and acknowledged the frustration of affected residents. Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC) is working with the province and has opened a file to ensure compliance with the Fisheries Act. ECCC stated that if evidence of a violation is found, appropriate action will be taken.
Resident Concerns
Nancy Barrington expressed ongoing mental anguish and concern about the potential for future incidents. She is advocating for stricter penalties for polluters, faster site remediation, and increased truck inspections.
Ollie Transport’s Lack of Response
Attempts to contact Ollie Transport through email and phone have been unsuccessful. Emails sent through the company’s website have not received a response.
The matter is scheduled to return to court on April 2, 2026.
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