CBSA officers seize over 1,000 kg of narcotics at Coutts port of entry in Alberta

Canada NewsWire

CALGARY, AB, Feb. 13, 2026

CALGARY, AB, Feb. 13, 2026 /CNW/ - In November and December 2025, CBSA border services officers at the Coutts port of entry in southern Alberta seized a combined 1,010 kg of cocaine, methamphetamine, suspected heroin and dode (opium poppies) from three commercial trucks.

On November 26, officers examined a commercial truck carrying a load of electrolyte beverages destined for Calgary, Alberta. With the assistance of the CBSA's Detector Dog Service, officers found 461 kg of cocaine and 43 kg of suspected heroin. Officers also found 1 gram of opium hidden in the cab of the truck. The driver was arrested for smuggling.

On December 2, officers examined a commercial truck hauling an empty truck trailer. During the search of the truck, officers found 300 kg of cocaine. Officers also found 400 grams of suspected dode (opium poppies) in the cab of the truck. The driver was arrested for smuggling.

On December 18, officers, with assistance from CBSA's Detector Dog Service, examined a commercial truck carrying a declared load of vacuum parts destined for Calgary, Alberta. During the search, officers found methamphetamine hidden inside. After completing the examination, a total of 206 kg of methamphetamine was seized. The driver was arrested for smuggling.

In all three incidents, the drivers and the seized narcotics were transferred to the custody of the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region.

Quotes

"This string of significant seizures exemplifies the dedication of CBSA officers who tirelessly defend our borders and protect our communities from dangerous drugs and organized crime groups. As a government, the safety and security of all Canadians is our most important responsibility."

- The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety

"CBSA officers remain vigilant and dedicated to keeping harmful drugs off our streets. Alongside our RCMP law enforcement partners, we are keeping Canadians safe by securing our borders and disrupting crime."

- Janalee Bell-Boychuk, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, Canada Border Services Agency

"Through strong collaboration with our partners, we continue to enhance our ability to detect, intercept, and prevent harmful drugs from crossing our borders. This shared commitment reflects our collective resolve to protect Canadians and disrupt those who attempt to traffic dangerous substances."

- Assistant Commissioner Lisa Moreland, Regional Commander, RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region

Quick facts

Smuggling and other Customs Act and Criminal Code contraventions may lead to arrest, criminal charges and prosecution in a court of law.
The CBSA screens goods, coming into Canada and examines more closely those that may pose a threat to the safety of Canadians.
In 2025, CBSA officers in Alberta were responsible for making 1,292 seizures of illegal narcotics, including 1,054 kg of cocaine and 279 kg of methamphetamine.
In 2025, CBSA detector Dog Service Teams carried out 29,486 searches, uncovering 13,986 high-risk food, plant, and animal items, along with 34,810 seizures involving drugs, firearms, and currency.
Canada is investing $1.3 billion to bolster security at the border and strengthen the immigration system, all while keeping Canadians safe. Information available on the Border Plan is available here: The Government of Canada's Border Plan: significant investments to strengthen border security and our immigration system - Canada.ca
For the latest contraband statistics, visit Canada Border Services Agency seizures.
If you have information about suspicious cross-border activity, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.
Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact their local police, the RCMP at 1-800-387-0020 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS

Associated links

SOURCE Canada Border Services Agency