Prosecutions and Seizures

Niagara–Fort Erie Region

CBSA officers seize over 69 kilos of marijuana at the Queenston–Lewiston Bridge

Queenston, Ontario, September 2, 2009 – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced today that it seized over 69 kilos of marijuana with an estimated street value of $1,379,320 at the Queenston-Lewiston Bridge Commercial Operations on August 27, 2009.

CBSA officers intercepted the contraband drugs when a 55-year old truck driver from Brampton, Ontario was referred for secondary examination. During an examination of the cab of the truck, CBSA officers discovered US $23,000 currency wrapped in plastic bags, in addition to 33 bundles of marijuana concealed in two large duffel bags hidden under the bunk. Detector Dog Bobby and his handler assisted the officers in determining the bags contained marijuana.

The RCMP took the subject into custody. The driver faces four charges of importing a controlled substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking, money laundering and possession of more than $5,000 under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

"I applaud the CBSA officers involved in this significant seizure of illicit drugs," said the Honourable Peter Van Loan, Minister of Public Safety. "This government recognizes that illicit drugs are the foundation of organized crime in this country. Seizures such as this are a clear sign that our efforts to fight organized crime and keep illegal drugs out of our communities are working."

This is the fourth significant drug seizure in the Niagara – Fort Erie Region in the last two months and the largest marijuana seizure in the region's history. In 2008, CBSA officers in the Niagara – Fort Erie Region made over 514 drug seizures, keeping over 270 kilograms of drugs off Canadian streets. Since January 2009, CBSA officers in the Niagara Region made over 334 drug seizures, keeping over 295 kilograms of drugs off the streets of our communities valued at almost $30 million.

The RCMP and CBSA investigations are ongoing.

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For media information:

Jean D'Amelio Swyer
CBSA Communications
Telephone: 905-354-2011
Cell: 905-933-5463