Prosecutions and Seizures

Greater Toronto Region

Over $3.2 million of Khat seized since January 2005

Mississauga, Ontario, June 3, 2005 - The Canada Border Services Agency announced today that officers from Pearson International Airport at Passenger and Commercial Operations and at the International Mail Centre have executed over 160 Khat seizures worth more than $3.2 million since January 1, 2005 - and more than $1 million in May alone.

Khat is the green leaf of a plant native to east Africa, which carries the scientific name Catha Edulis. The active ingredients contained in khat are cathine and cathinone, which produce a stimulant effect similar to amphetamine when the green parts of the plant are ingested.

In Canada, the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act governs Khat and is illegal to import.

"These seizures clearly demonstrate that we will not allow the use of our borders for illegal activities," said Reinhard Mantzel, Regional Director General. "Seizures of illegal drugs contribute to impeding the ability of criminals to operate effectively within our borders."

For more information on Khat and its effects, visit the Health Canada Web site.

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