Border agents seize over $2.1 million in cocaine at Montreal airport

Canada Border Services agents seized 17.6 kilograms of cocaine, valued at around $2.2 million at the Montreal airport in April. (CBSA)

Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers seized over 17 kilograms of cocaine at the Montreal airport at the beginning of the month, coming from Panama.

The CBSA said on Wednesday that a single suitcase was left on the carousel, and after inspecting the suitcase from Rio Hato, Panama, officers found several bricks of “a white substance.”

A test found that the 16 bricks were cocaine with a value of $2,193,625.

The CBSA said the cocaine was turned over to the RCMP and an investigation is underway.

“I would like to acknowledge the exceptional dedication and professionalism of our border services officers who protect our country from contraband and organized crime,” said CBSA Quebec regional director Eric Lapierre. “Thanks to their vigilance and expertise, we have been able to intercept significant quantities of cocaine, protecting our communities from the dangers associated with drugs.”

The CBSA said that in 2024, 60 cocaine seizures were made, totalling just under 40 kilograms. The agency added that the 2024 seizures across the country (4,589 kg.) are up 156 per cent from 2023.