CBSA seizes heroin at the John C. Munroe Hamilton International Airport

August 24, 2017               Hamilton, Ontario              Canada Border Services Agency

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) announced today that a seizure of heroin at the John C. Munroe Hamilton International Airport resulted in two arrests.

On July 18, border services officers conducted a routine exam at a cargo facility at the John C. Munroe Hamilton International Airport and opened a package from Pakistan. The package included various clothing items, including five pairs of women’s high-heel shoes. Officers decided to conduct an X-ray after noticing a smell emitting from the package and modifications to the soles of the shoes. The scan revealed the presence of unidentified rectangular objects varying in size in the soles of the shoes. Officers separated the soles from the shoes and discovered wrapped, clear bags shaped to represent the soles. The substance tested positive for heroin. In total, the CBSA seized 799 grams of heroin concealed in five pairs of shoes.  

The CBSA turned over the narcotics to the RCMP who conducted a controlled delivery and as a result the following individuals were arrested and charged: 

• Evans Okwara (34 years old) of Toronto was charged with importation of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and conspiracy. 

• Nancy Mintah (25 years old) of Toronto was charged with importation of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking and conspiracy. 

The CBSA and the RCMP work closely with their domestic and international law enforcement partners to ensure the safety and security of Canada's border.