CBSA Seizes 425 kg of Illegal Cannabis at Nova Scotia Port and Airport

CBSA Seizes 425 Kilograms of Suspected Cannabis

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is dedicated to preventing illegal drug trafficking at Canadian borders.

On November 26, 2024, the CBSA revealed three significant drug seizures totaling 425 kilograms of suspected cannabis in Nova Scotia.

1. Port of Halifax Seizure

   On October 22, CBSA officers examined a marine container bound for the Caribbean. They discovered 574 packages of suspected cannabis weighing 347 kilograms and one package of hashish weighing approximately 1 kilogram hidden inside the container. The evidence was forwarded to the Nova Scotia RCMP’s Federal Serious and Organized Crime (FSOC) unit for investigation.

2. Halifax Stanfield International Airport Seizures

   On November 13, officers at the Halifax Stanfield International Airport (HSIA) intercepted two large suitcases with about 49 kilograms of suspected cannabis destined for London, UK. Quinn Alexander Cole was arrested for smuggling. He faces charges under the Cannabis Act for exporting, possession for sale, and distribution. Cole’s court appearance is scheduled for January 22, 2025.

   On November 14, officers at HSIA again intercepted two suitcases containing approximately 30 kilograms of suspected cannabis also headed for London, UK. Alexander James Mahar was arrested for smuggling and charged under the Cannabis Act. Mahar’s court date is January 28, 2025.

Legal Consequences

Despite cannabis being legal in Canada, transporting it illegally across borders is a serious offense. Penalties include up to 5 years under the Customs Act and up to 14 years under the Cannabis Act.

The CBSA remains vigilant in enforcing these laws to combat drug trafficking in Canada.