CBSA nabs truck driver carrying cocaine

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) seized 30 kilograms of suspected cocaine after inspecting a commercial truck at the Coutts border crossing in southern Alberta.

The seizure was made on April 9, 2023, after CBSA officers stopped the truck that was bound for Calgary. During the search of the vehicle, officers also discovered 5.7 grams of suspected opium.

The driver was subsequently arrested by the CBSA and transferred to the Alberta Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Integrated Border Enforcement Unit’s custody along with the suspected narcotics.

On April 10, 2023, the RCMP charged the 35-year-old driver with the following offences:

• Importation of a Controlled Substance contrary to section 6(1) 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
• Smuggling into Canada contrary to section 159 of the Customs Act.

The individual is scheduled to appear in Lethbridge Provincial Court on May 26, 2023.

“We are proud of the work our border officers do to ensure the safety and well being of Canadians. I want to thank CBSA employees for their continued quick and decisive action and for their ongoing efforts to protect our country from illegal drugs,” said Brad Wozny, regional director general, Prairie region, Canada Border Services Agency

In November 2022, CBSA officers discovered and seized a total of 96 kg of cocaine in two separate seizures  from commercial trucks carrying produce. In February 2023, officers seized 300 kg of methamphetamine from a commercial truck declaring home décor goods.