News Release

National 2010

Combined efforts of CBSA and RCMP dismantle significant marijuana grow operation in Saskatchewan

Regina, Saskatchewan, September 9, 2010 – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) have dismantled a significant marijuana grow operation in the community of Grenfell, Saskatchewan.

"I would like to commend the Royal Canadian Mounted Police and the Canada Border Services Agency, who were involved in disrupting this significant grow operation," said the Hon. Vic Toews, Minister of Public Safety. "Through their ongoing partnership and coordinated efforts, these law enforcement agencies have once again taken action to keep drugs off our streets and protect our citizens."

On September 7, 2010, a traveller seeking entry into Canada presented at the Goodlands, Manitoba border crossing, located approximately 400 km southeast of Regina. CBSA officers referred the traveller for a secondary examination. During this examination, a small amount of suspected hash was located in the individual's vehicle along with documents to suggest the presence of a grow operation in Saskatchewan.

A 29-year-old male from Calgary, Alberta was arrested at the border. He was taken into custody with the assistance of the RCMP Killarney detachment in Manitoba, prompting an investigation of a property.

On September 8, RCMP executed a search warrant on the property, an abandoned theatre in Grenfell, Saskatchewan, located approximately 125 km east of Regina. Inside, RCMP officers found approximately 416 marijuana plants in all stages of growth. The marijuana grow operation used a sophisticated and automated system to support the marijuana plants.

The investigation continues.

The CBSA works closely with its law enforcement partners, including the RCMP, in an effort to stem organized criminal activity in Canada's communities.

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If you have any information about this case, or if you have witnessed or are aware of an incident involving suspicious cross-border activity, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1-888-502-9060.

For media information:

Lisa White
CBSA Communications Officer
403-292-4011

Sgt. Paul Dawson
"F" Division RCMP Media Relations Officer
306-780-3827

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