24 guns seized at the Coutts border
News release
The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced charges today following the seizure of 24 undeclared firearms at the Coutts, Alberta border crossing.
On April 9, CBSA officers referred two Alaska-bound travellers for further examination. Each was driving an SUV and towing a trailer, and they were travelling together. The examination revealed 16 long guns and eight handguns that had not been declared. Four of the firearms were classified as prohibited, meaning visitors cannot import them for any reason. Additionally, officers seized 70 undeclared overcapacity magazines.
The CBSA charged Christopher Douglas Gies, 41, and Caroline Elizabeth Gies, 42, both U.S. residents, on seven counts pursuant to the Customs Act and eight counts pursuant to the Criminal Code. They are scheduled to make their next appearance on June 4, 2018 in Lethbridge Provincial Court.
Quotes
“Failing to declare at the border is not a time-saver, and it is definitely not worth the risk. We are happy to assist lawful gun owners with importing their firearms properly, but if you don’t declare them, you are breaking the law and will be treated accordingly.”
Guy Rook, Director for southern Alberta, Canada Border Services Agency
Quick facts
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- CBSA officers in southern Alberta seized more than 50 undeclared firearms in 2017, including more than 30 handguns. Most firearms seized at CBSA land ports of entry are from U.S. travellers seeking entry to Canada.
- Travellers who do not declare firearms upon arrival can face arrest, seizure, monetary penalties, and/or criminal prosecution. Failing to declare firearms can also make visitors inadmissible to enter Canada.
- The CBSA encourages U.S. residents who are transiting through Canada to Alaska to ship their firearms separately before arriving at the Canadian border, and to retain the shipping receipt. Please note that handguns cannot be mailed through the United States Postal Service and must be shipped via common or contract carrier.
Associated links
Contacts
Media Relations
Canada Border Services Agency
PrairieMedia@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca
1-844-245-2272