CBSA operation disrupts drug and gun smuggling, two attempts thwarted in Sarnia

Drugs, guns and money seized at multiple ports of entry in Southwestern Ontario. (Source: CBSA)

Two attempts to smuggle illegal drugs over the Blue Water Bridge in Sarnia were stopped by Canadian Border Services Agency as part of a 60-day operation, along with other trafficking attempts across Southwestern Ontario.

As shared by the CBSA on Friday, Operation Meridian resulted in five individuals being charged, with over 724 kg of narcotics and nine firearms seized from multiple ports of entry.

Three of the individuals were charged and transferred into RCMP custody after 108.4 kg of cocaine and 349.8 kg of methamphetamine were seized at the Sarnia border.

According to the CBSA, 16 investigations are ongoing.

In total, border officers seized:

• 108.6235 kg of cocaine, including 223.5 g in three courier shipments
• 349.8 kg of methamphetamines
• 266 kg of khat from seven courier shipments
• 14.5 g of opium
• 8,267 kg of tobacco, 115,416 tins of nicotine and 14,400 vapourizers
• 9 firearms (including 1 stolen firearm) and 19 weapons
• US$93,100 in currency as proceeds of crime.

The CBSA says 90 per cent of the seizures were from attempts to smuggle into Canada, and the other 10 per cent were exports.

“We have had remarkable success in intercepting smuggling efforts of dangerous narcotics destined to cities throughout the country. This outstanding work helps keep Canadians safe by stopping harmful drugs from reaching our streets and communities,” said Michael Prosia, regional director general, Southern Ontario Region, CBSA.