RCMP Arrest Two Air Canada Employees for Alleged Drug Trafficking at Montreal Airport

According to federal police, the suspects held ground operations positions and allegedly utilized secure airport areas to move illicit drugs across borders.

Ground Operations Suspects Facilitated Airport Drug Smuggling

The RCMP stated that the two Air Canada workers participated in a conspiracy to bring and move luggage through secure zones of the airport. Federal investigators report that this scheme facilitated the illegal importation of cocaine and the exportation of cannabis.

Law enforcement executed search warrants at two residences and a vehicle in the Greater Montreal area on Wednesday morning. Officers also searched the airline employees’ base of operations in Dorval, Que., with the full cooperation of Air Canada.

Investigation Triggers and Drug Seizures

According to the RCMP, the underlying investigation began in May after officers intercepted 62.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed inside backpacks on a flight arriving from Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic. Over the course of the subsequent inquiry, authorities also seized an additional 56 kilograms of cannabis.

Following their arrests and questioning on Wednesday, the two suspects were released pending further legal proceedings. Air Canada confirmed that both employees have been suspended while the police investigation remains active.

The RCMP noted that further analysis of the evidence collected could lead to additional arrests and charges as the case develops.