Integrated Border Enforcement Team lay charges for drug importation following $3.6 million seizure

March 23, 2023
Calgary, Alberta

News release

Images

Approximately 300 kg of methamphetamine on display
A bag of methamphetamine

The Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET), a joint force operation between the RCMP, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and Calgary Police Service (CPS), has charged a Calgary resident for drug importation and trafficking.

On Feb. 19, 2023, CBSA officers discovered and seized approximately 300 kg of methamphetamine following a secondary examination of a commercial transport vehicle at the Coutts border crossing. The drugs, which have an approximate wholesale value of $3.6 million, were hidden in several boxes in the rear of the vehicle.

On Feb. 20, 2023, a 49-year-old individual, a resident of Calgary, was charged with the following offences:

  • Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
  • Importation of a Controlled Substance contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
  • Smuggling into Canada contrary to section 159(1) of the Customs Act.

The 49-year-old individual is scheduled to appear in Lethbridge Provincial Court on March 23, 2023.

"This seizure serves as an important reminder of IBET's effectiveness in disrupting drug smuggling operations. By intercepting these drugs, we have diverted millions of dollars in illegal profits and prevented the distribution of methamphetamine to our communities."

  • Supt. Sean Boser, OIC of Federal Policing Calgary

"CBSA officers are committed to detecting and intercepting illegal narcotics and other dangerous goods from entering Canada. This significant methamphetamine seizure, one of the Agency's largest in the last five years, is a great example of our officers' resolve in keeping dangerous drugs out of our communities.

  • Director Benjamin Tame, Southern Alberta and Saskatchewan District, CBSA

"The collaboration between the members of IBET has been effective in reducing the amount of drugs and crime in our communities. Seizures like this one highlight IBET's importance and its impact on the safety of Calgarians and Albertans."

  • Supt. Cory Dayley, Criminal Operations and Intelligence Division, CPS

IBET's mandate is to enhance border integrity and security along the shared border, between designated ports of entry, by identifying, investigating and interdicting persons, organizations and goods that are involved in criminal activities.

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Contact information

Alberta RCMP Media Relations
780-509-3970

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