Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at the Coutts, Alta., port of entry seized more than 1,000 kg of illegal narcotics from three commercial trucks in November and December, underscoring ongoing enforcement efforts at Canada’s southern border.
According to the CBSA, the seizures included cocaine, methamphetamine, suspected heroin and opium poppies discovered during separate inspections of trucks entering the country.
The largest seizure occurred Nov. 26, when officers examining a load of electrolyte beverages destined for Calgary uncovered 461 kg of cocaine and 43 kg of suspected heroin with the help of a detector dog team. Officers also found a small quantity of opium hidden in the cab. The driver was arrested for smuggling.
On Dec. 2, officers inspecting a tractor hauling an empty trailer discovered 300 kg of cocaine along with suspected opium poppies in the cab. The driver was arrested.
A third incident on Dec. 18 involved a truck hauling declared vacuum parts bound for Calgary. Officers, again assisted by a detector dog team, located 206 kg of methamphetamine concealed within the load. The driver was arrested.
In all three cases, the drivers and seized narcotics were transferred to RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said the seizures highlight the role border officers play in protecting Canadians from organized crime and dangerous drugs.
“This string of significant seizures exemplifies the dedication of CBSA officers who tirelessly defend our borders and protect our communities from dangerous drugs and organized crime groups,” he said. “As a government, the safety and security of all Canadians is our most important responsibility.”
Janalee Bell-Boychuk, CBSA regional director general for the Prairie Region, said officers remain focused on intercepting harmful substances before they reach Canadian communities.
“CBSA officers remain vigilant and dedicated to keeping harmful drugs off our streets,” she said. “Alongside our RCMP law enforcement partners, we are keeping Canadians safe by securing our borders and disrupting crime.”
RCMP Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland added that collaboration between agencies continues to strengthen detection and enforcement efforts.
“Through strong collaboration with our partners, we continue to enhance our ability to detect, intercept, and prevent harmful drugs from crossing our borders,” she said.
CBSA reported Alberta officers made 1,292 narcotics seizures in 2025, including more than 1,000 kg of cocaine and 279 kg of methamphetamine.
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