THE Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) criminal investigators launched an investigation in February into a cigarette smuggling operation after CBSA officers intercepted numerous contraband cigarette shipments at Vancouver International Airport Commercial Operations and the Vancouver International Mail Centre.
Following an investigation, on November 19, CBSA criminal investigators executed a search warrant at a Vancouver residence. The following items were seized:
- 3,826 cartons of contraband cigarettes
- 4.2 kilograms of illegal cannabis
- $51,915 in cash and casino chips
CBSA officers arrested a 34-year-old Vancouver resident for their suspected involvement in the cigarette smuggling operation and the investigation is ongoing.
Nina Patel, Regional Director General, CBSA, Pacific Region, said: “The CBSA works hard to intercept contraband at our borders and investigates those who break Canada’s laws. The efforts of our officers and investigators have disrupted illegal trade, which harms our communities and local businesses.”
