15.5 kg of suspected crystal meth intercepted at Calgary International Airport

Police say more than three-quarters of a million dollars worth of suspected crystal meth was intercepted on its way out of YYC this week. (Courtesy Calgary Police Service)

Police say more than three-quarters of a million dollars worth of suspected crystal meth was intercepted on its way out of YYC this week.

The discovery was made by the Canadian Air Transport Security Authority at the Calgary International Airport around 9:30 a.m. Tuesday.

According to police, three individually wrapped packages weighing a total of 15.5 kilograms were found inside a checked bag.

If the “crystal‑like substance” is indeed crystal meth, police say it’s worth about $780,000 on the street.

Police made an arrest aboard a Vancouver‑bound aircraft.

They say the suspect’s ultimate destination is believed to have been New Zealand, “using connecting flights.”

Charged now with possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking and possession for the purpose of exporting other drugs is Lloyd Tei Mataafa, 38.

His name is next set to be called in a Calgary courtroom on Friday.

Meanwhile, police say investigation continues.

Anyone with relevant information is encouraged to call police at 403-266-1234 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.