Coutts, Alta., border agents seize $3.6M of methamphetamine
Authorities say charges have been laid against a Calgary resident in connection with the attempted importation of 300 kilograms of methamphetamine at the Coutts, Alta., border crossing.
Officials say the seizure took place on Feb. 19, when Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers discovered the drugs inside a transport truck.
"The drugs, which have an approximate wholesale value of $3.6 million, were hidden in several boxes in the rear of the vehicle," police said in a release.
Paramjit Laroyia, 49, of Calgary, was arrested and charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, importation of a controlled substance and smuggling.
Officials say the operation prevented a large quantity of drugs from coming into the country.
"This seizure serves as an important reminder of (the Integrated Border Enforcement Team'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," said Supt. Sean Boser with the RCMP's Federal Policing Services.
The CBSA says its officers are trained to detect shipments of illegal narcotics and stop them from coming into the country.
"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," said Benjamin Tame, director of the CBSA's Southern Alberta and Saskatchewan District.
Laroyia is scheduled to appear in Lethbridge provincial court on Thursday.
CTVNews.ca Top Stories
From outer space? Sask. farmers baffled after discovering strange wreckage in field
A family of fifth generation farmers from Ituna, Sask. are trying to find answers after discovering several strange objects lying on their land.
Broadcaster and commentator Rex Murphy dead at 77: National Post
The National Post is reporting that Rex Murphy, the pundit and columnist who hosted a national call-in radio show for decades, has died.
Pearson gold heist suspect arrested after flying into Toronto from India
Another suspect is in custody in connection with the gold heist at Toronto Pearson International Airport last year, police say.
Millions of cyberattacks per hour as B.C. government investigates multiple breaches
Careful attention to government statements and legislation is required to get a handle on the level of risk British Columbians’ information is under, as investigators probe multiple breaches under a continued barrage of attacks.
Ontario family receives massive hospital bill as part of LTC law, refuses to pay
A southwestern Ontario woman has received an $8,400 bill from a hospital in Windsor, Ont., after she refused to put her mother in a nursing home she hated -- and she says she has no intention of paying it.
Debate on abortion rights erupts on Parliament Hill, Poilievre vows he won't legislate
A Conservative government led by Pierre Poilievre would not legislate on, nor use the notwithstanding clause, on abortion, his office says, as anti-abortion protesters gather on Parliament Hill.
Justin and Hailey Bieber are expecting their first child together
Hailey and Justin Bieber are going to be parents. The couple announced the news on Thursday on Instagram, both sharing a video that showcases Hailey Bieber's growing belly.
Here are the ultraprocessed foods you most need to avoid, according to a 30-year study
Studies have shown that ultraprocessed foods can have a detrimental impact on health. But 30 years of research show they don’t all have the same impact.
New 'Lord of the Rings' film coming in 2026
The Oscar-winning team behind the nearly US$6 billion blockbuster 'Lord of the Rings' and 'The Hobbit' trilogies is reuniting to produce two new films.