Canadian Police seize 2,500 kg opium worth over $50 million in Vancouver
Vancouver (Canada), December 17: The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has seized around 2,500 kilograms of opium, worth more than USD 50 million from 247 shipping pallets at the Port of Vancouver, a bustling west coast seaport in Canada's British Columbia.
Notably, this is the CBSA's largest opium seizure to date.
Intelligence Sections and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Federal Serious and Organized Crime (FSOC) unit initiated a probe into a potential significant importation of controlled substances concealed inside marine containers, said CBSA.
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"On October 25, 2022, CBSA's Metro Vancouver Marine Operations conducted an examination of goods within 19 marine containers based on this investigation. Using a wide range of detection tools and technology, including X-ray technology, officers discovered irregularities in the shipping pallets as part of a deep concealment method," the statement read.
It added, "Further physical examination confirmed approximately 2,486 kilograms of opium within 247 shipping pallets. The drugs seized were turned over to the RCMP FSOC unit for further criminal investigation."
Speaking about the investigation, Canada's Minister of Public Safety, Marco Mendicino, stated that community safety and security are the top priorities. The work begins at the borders, where illegal drugs are stopped and criminal activity is disrupted. He also expressed gratitude to CBSA employees for their quick and decisive action in keeping the country safe.
- ANI
