Prosecutions and Seizures

Atlantic Region

Over 200 kilograms of cocaine seized at the Port of Halifax

Halifax, Nova Scotia, February 11, 2010 - The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) National Ports Enforcement Team (NPET) announced today that CBSA officers at the Port of Halifax have seized over 200 kilos of cocaine.

The drugs were found aboard a vessel that arrived in Halifax on February 8, 2010 originating from Chile. Through an examination of the container by CBSA officers and with the help of technology, the cocaine was discovered in a number of black bags at the back of the container.

"Our CBSA officers are Canada's first line of defence in seizing illegal drugs and making sure that those drugs are kept off our streets," says Andrew LeFrank, the Director of the Nova Scotia District for CBSA. "The CBSA remains committed to protecting our borders and keeping our communities safe."

Superintendent Brian Brennan, RCMP Federal Policing Officer in Nova Scotia says, "The success of this seizure represents the seamless integration between the RCMP and CBSA in identifying contraband coming through our ports. Our goal is to ultimately disrupt and eliminate the capacity of organized crime groups to utilize Nova Scotia's ports as a stepping stone in a broader drug distribution network."

Although the drugs were not believed to be destined for distribution within Nova Scotia, the RCMP is continuing the investigation.

– 30 –

For media information:

Laurie Gillmore
CBSA Communications
Work: 902-426-0900
Cell: 902-802-1824

Sgt. Brigdit Leger
RCMP Media Relations Officer
Work: 902-426-5120
Cell: 902-222-0154