The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) seized $46,000 in currency from a traveller arriving from Barbados at Toronto Pearson International Airport on January 28, 2015.
While monitoring a baggage offload, officers observed a lone suitcase at the carousel. Upon further examination, a single black laptop bag was discovered within the contents of the suitcase. Examination of the laptop bag revealed anomalies. A small cut was made in the inner liner of the bag, revealing a large sum of US$100 bills. Officers located the traveller who claimed ownership of the luggage.
The traveller claimed no knowledge of the currency. Officers seized the cash as suspected proceeds of crime under the Proceeds of Crime (Money Laundering) and Terrorist Financing Act with no terms of release.
The investigation is ongoing. CBSA officers continue to watch for high-risk travellers who may not be in compliance with Canadian law.
Quick Facts
- This is the first seizure of suspected proceeds of crime by the CBSA at Toronto Pearson in 2015.
- In 2014, the CBSA in the Greater Toronto Area seized more than $370,000 in suspected proceeds of crime. This is in addition to the 467 who failed to declare more than $7 million in currency, as required.
- Currency and other monetary instruments valued at $10,000 or more must be reported to the CBSA when entering or leaving Canada ‒ failure to do so may result in seizure action.
Quotes
“I want to congratulate the officers involved in this proceeds of crime currency seizure. CBSA officers are always on the lookout for illegal activity and are dedicated to protecting Canada’s national security.”
- Goran Vragovic, Regional Director General of CBSA, Greater Toronto Area Region
Associated Links
Cross-border currency reporting
Contact
CBSA Media Relations
Greater Toronto Area
905-803-2800
Follow the CBSA on Twitter (@CanBorder), join us on Facebook or visit our YouTube channel.
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Photo caption:
Currency displayed.
