An Edmonton driver has been charged after cocaine was found in their truck at the Coutts border crossing.
According to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), the incident occurred on June 17 when a commercial truck entered Canada from the United States at the Coutts border crossing.
During a routine inspection, CBSA officers discovered a significant amount of suspected cocaine hidden within the truck’s cab.
The CBSA alerted the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) and the driver was arrested and charged with importation of a controlled substance and possession for the purpose of trafficking.
The driver, who has been identified as 41-year-old Gurpreet Singh, appeared in Lethbridge Provincial Court on June 22 and was remanded into custody.
The CBSA estimates that the seized cocaine has a street value of approximately $645,000.
In a statement, the CBSA said, “The CBSA is committed to stopping illegal drug smuggling and works closely with the RCMP to prevent illegal substances from entering our communities.”
The RCMP also issued a statement, emphasizing the importance of border security and the collaboration between agencies in preventing illegal activities.
This incident serves as a reminder of the ongoing efforts to keep our borders safe and secure. The CBSA and RCMP continue to work together to protect Canadians from the dangers of illegal drugs.
The investigation is ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact the RCMP or Crime Stoppers.
