The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) recently made three significant seizures at the Vancouver International Airport.
On June 7, 2014, border service officers (BSO) intercepted an individual travelling from Mexico City. Following additional examination, various indicators led the BSO to suspect the traveller was body packing narcotics. BSOs arrested the individual after finding 1.81 kg of suspected methamphetamines. Custody of the individual, and all evidence, was transferred to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and charges were laid for smuggling narcotics.
On June 3, 2014, a BSO interviewed a 19 year-old traveller to Sydney, Australia, as part of routine outbound currency checks. The BSO became suspicious that the individual may be carrying contraband, and subsequently detained the traveller and escorted him to the CBSA secondary examination area. As officers suspected the traveller had swallowed narcotics, the traveller was immediately taken to a nearby hospital where he later expelled 98 pellets, for a combined weight of 159.19 grams of suspected cocaine. Custody of the traveller, and the narcotics, was transferred to the RCMP.
On May 28, 2014, an individual travelling from Munich was found to be in possession of a suspected child exploitation video and bestiality images. The traveller was subsequently arrested and charged by CBSA Criminal Investigations for possession of child pornography. Custody of the individual, and all electronic media devices were transferred to police enforcement partners. A court date is scheduled for September 2, 2014.
Quick Facts
- In 2013, BSOs in the Pacific Region made 2,523 drug seizures, keeping more than 1,256 kg of drugs off British Columbia streets.
- The CBSA welcomes all tips on suspicious cross-border activity. Please call the Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1-888-502-9060
Quote
“Our officers are the first line of defence in protecting Canadians from the devastating social impact of criminal activity associated with the smuggling of contraband. CBSA is committed to taking appropriate enforcement actions to ensure the safety and security of the Canadian public.”
Rahul Coelho
Chief of Operations, Vancouver International Airport District
Associated Links
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Contacts
CBSA Media Relations
Vancouver, British Columbia
604-818-9701
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