Prosecutions and Seizures

Quebec Region

The CBSA seizes $14 million of cocaine hidden in sunflower oil bottles

Montréal, Quebec, December 20, 2011 — On November 29, 2011, at the Port of Montréal, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers seized 310 kilograms of cocaine concealed in sunflower oil bottles. The street value is estimated at $14 million.

Further to collaboration with the Sûreté du Québec, the ever-vigilant CBSA officers conducted a thorough search of a maritime container from Bolivia. The illegal merchandise had been carefully blended with a liquid substance and hidden in 1,236 one-litre bottles.

CBSA officers examined the goods in a routine inspection. An in-depth physical examination of the container and a laboratory analysis of the liquid confirmed the presence of cocaine in 1,236 of the 13,000 bottles included in the shipment.

The drugs were handed over to the RCMP who opened an investigation.

CBSA officers play a key role in intercepting illegal drugs and other contraband items at Canadian ports of entry. These seizures help prevent the smuggling of illegal drugs which threatens the safety of Canadian communities and fuels organized crime.

Between January 1 and December 31, 2010, the CBSA in Quebec Region carried out 1,864 drug seizures worth over $150 million.

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Media enquiries
Media Relations, Quebec Region
Canada Border Services Agency
Telephone: 514-350-6130

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