CBSA officers make a major cannabis seizure at the Montreal Marine and Rail Service

News release

January 22, 2025, Montreal, Quebec

Canada Border Services Agency

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to protecting our communities against smuggling and organized crime.

On December 27, 2024, border services officers of the Montréal Marine and Rail Service, identified and examined a marine container loaded with vehicles and vehicle parts.  

During the examination, border services officers detected the contraband packed in the back of the container. It was concealed in 3113 sealed packets placed in 59 large sports bags. The goods were in the process of being exported to Nigeria. In total, 1,384.5 kg of suspected cannabis was seized by the CBSA and turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). The contraband is valued at over CAN$12.8M. The investigation is ongoing.

The CBSA would like to remind everyone that despite the legalization and regulation of cannabis in Canada, importing or exporting cannabis in any form without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence subject to arrest and prosecution.

Quotes

“I am proud of the work of our border services officers. This seizure is another example of the CBSA’s efforts to secure the border and prevent the export of contraband abroad. Seizures like these contribute significantly to ensuring that organized crime does not benefit from unlawful gains.”

 – Eric Lapierre, Regional Director General, Quebec Region, Canada Border Services Agency 

Quick facts

  • For the latest statistics on smuggling, go to: Canada Border Services Agency seizures.

  • Learn about Cannabis at the border.

  • Smuggling narcotics and other Customs Act contraventions may lead to prosecution in a court of law. For foreign nationals this may mean removal from Canada, and a ban on returning to Canada.

  • Contact the Border Watch Line to report suspicious cross-border activities using our secure web form or by calling 1-888-502-9060 toll-free.

Contacts

Canada Border Services Agency

media@cbsa-asfc.gc.ca

1-877-761-5945 or 613-957-6500

X (formerly Twitter): @CanBorderQUE  

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