Too many air fresheners lead to suspected cocaine seizure

SURREY, BC, Dec. 22 /CNW/ - A Surrey man is facing serious charges after Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at the Pacific Highway port of entry intercepted 37 kilograms of suspected cocaine worth approximately $1.5 million.

On November 23, the 44-year-old driving a semi-truck and trailer carrying a shipment, declared as raisins from California, was referred for a secondary examination. As a result of routine vigilance on the part of the CBSA officer, and the overpowering scent of air fresheners, the examination led officers to discover the suspected cocaine hidden in a duffle bag in the truck cab. 

The man was arrested by CBSA officers for importing a controlled substance and turned over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. The RCMP investigation is ongoing.

The CBSA works closely with its law enforcement partners, including the RCMP, to prevent the smuggling of illegal drugs which fuels organized crime and undermines the safety of Canadian communities.

Please visit the RCMP Web site at www.bc.rcmp.ca for information on their portion of this investigation.

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For further information:

Shakila Manzoor
Communications Advisor
Canada Border Services Agency
604-666-6084