Coutts border crossing makes largest cocaine seizure in Prairie Region

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced today details of three significant cocaine seizures at the Coutts border crossing.

On October 10, 2016, CBSA officers intercepted a commercial vehicle hauling produce destined for an Alberta business. After examining the commercial vehicle and its contents, CBSA officers located 83 bricks of cocaine hidden throughout the cab of the commercial vehicle. The total weight of this seizure was 92.74 kg, which makes it the largest cocaine seizure made by CBSA officers in Prairie Region to date.

The driver, 53, of British Columbia and a co-driver, 31, of Ontario, were arrested and turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).

On September 4, 2016, CBSA officers intercepted a commercial vehicle hauling a shipment of Halloween costumes destined for an Alberta business. Upon opening the first box, officers noted a small dense package hidden amongst the costumes and its contents tested positive for cocaine. A total of 34 packages were seized with a total weight of 40.45 kg. The driver was arrested and, along with the drugs, was turned over to the RCMP.

On September 2, 2016, CBSA officers intercepted a commercial vehicle hauling a shipment of flat screen televisions also destined for an Alberta business. Upon opening the first box, officers noted a small dense package in a vacuum sealed bag located between the TV and the inside of the box. The package tested positive for cocaine. A total of 60 packages of cocaine were seized with a total weight of 69 kg. The driver and co‑driver were arrested and, along with the cocaine, were turned over to the RCMP.

Quotes

“Officers at Coutts have continued to demonstrate their dedication to border security. From 109.45 kg of cocaine in September, to 92.74 kg in October, the port of Coutts continues to strengthen the integrity of our borders and keep Canadians safe.”

Kim R. Scoville, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, CBSA

Quick Facts

• The cocaine seized in September is the most cocaine seized in one weekend by the Prairie Region.
• Another significant cocaine seizure in Alberta occurred on April 30, 2016, when officers at the Edmonton International Airport intercepted a traveller who had ingested 82 pellets of cocaine, weighing 978.6 g.

Associated Links 
Border Watch Toll-free Line
Recruitment: Become a CBSA officer

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Contact
Canada Border Services Agency
prairiemedia@cbsa.gc.ca
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