Winnipeg resident charged with attempted drug exportation
News release
July 28, 2025 Calgary, Alberta Canada Border Services Agency/Royal Canadian Mounted Police
On June 23, 2025, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at the Calgary International Airport were conducting outbound exams when they intercepted luggage destined for Narita, Japan. The luggage, which had been flagged for abnormalities, was found to contain approximately 30 kg of methamphetamine concealed within its contents. The traveler had already boarded their outbound flight when CBSA border services officers intervened, arresting and removing the individual from the aircraft without incident.
The Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) in Alberta, a joint force operation between the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region, CBSA and Calgary Police Service, was notified, and a criminal investigation was initiated into the traveler and the seized drugs.
Mariane Lee (18), a resident of Winnipeg, Man., was arrested and charged with:
- Possession for the purpose of exporting contrary to section 6(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
- Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
- Attempting to export goods that are prohibited, controlled or regulated contrary to section 160 of the Customs Act.
Lee is scheduled to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Calgary on July 28, 2025.
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Quotes
“This seizure demonstrates the dedication and expertise of CBSA’s border services officers as they work to prevent illegal drugs from breaching our borders. Through our key partnerships with the RCMP and the Calgary Police Service, the CBSA works to disrupt those attempting to smuggle illegal narcotics and hold them accountable.”
- Janalee Bell-Boychuk, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, Canada Border Services Agency
“Stopping drug exportation starts with strong partnerships. Together, we can dismantle trafficking networks and protect communities here and around the world. It’s not just about enforcement – it's about protecting lives and building safer futures, both at home and abroad.”
- Supt. Sean Boser, Officer in Charge of Federal Serious Organized Crime and Border Integrity – Alberta, RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region
“Drug trafficking is not confined by borders, and neither is our commitment to stopping it all. By working with our partners, we can continue to disrupt these types of criminal networks that fuel exploitation in our communities.”
- Acting Supt. Shanon Scott, Criminal Operations & Intelligence Division, Calgary Police Service
Quick facts
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IBET’s mandate is to enhance border integrity and security along the shared border, between designated ports of entry, by identifying, investigating and interdicting persons, organizations and goods that are involved in criminal activities.
Contacts
RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region Media
fp.nwr_media-pf.rno_medias@rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Canada Border Services Agency
1-877-761-5945