Prosecutions and Seizures

Pacific Region (including Yukon)

CBSA officers intercept 54 kilos of cocaine in Vancouver

Vancouver, British Columbia, October 5th, 2007 -- The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced today that its officers at the Vancouver International Airport intercepted 54 kilograms of cocaine last month.

"This seizure clearly demonstrates the excellent work our officers continue to do,” said the Honourable Stockwell Day, Minister of Public Safety. “Once again Canadians can be proud of the contributions made by our law enforcement agencies to keep our communities safe.”

On September 6, 2007, CBSA officers with the airside enforcement team identified a flight from Mexico for examination. After inspecting the aircraft’s cargo hold, CBSA officers identified four suspicious suitcases. A comprehensive examination of the luggage was carried out and the officers discovered eight packages inside. A field test identified the substance as cocaine. A total of 54 kilograms of cocaine was seized. Investigations are ongoing.

So far this year, CBSA officers in the Pacific Region have seized 334 kilograms of cocaine. Last year, the CBSA made 510 drug seizures at Vancouver International Airport, keeping more than 100 kilograms of drugs off Canadian streets.

Digital photos available upon request.

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For media information:

CBSA Media Enquiries - Pacific Region

Cocaine discovered in suitcases.

High resolution