The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has announced one of its largest narcotics seizures at Vancouver International Airport, intercepting a massive consignment of cocaine and methamphetamine concealed within a shipment of car parts bound for Australia.
According to a CBSA statement, on September 3, 2025, border services officers discovered a combined total of 560 kilograms of narcotics, including 319 kilograms of cocaine and 241 kilograms of methamphetamine. The drugs were hidden in 300 compressed powder bricks and 110 vacuum-sealed packages, ingeniously packed to evade detection.
The contraband was handed over to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), which has since launched a full-scale investigation into the smuggling network.
CBSA described the interception as a “significant seizure” and noted that it represents one of the agency’s largest export-bound narcotics busts at Vancouver International Airport. Officials say that over the past year, there has been a noticeable surge in attempts to smuggle cocaine and other illicit substances in and out of Canada, using increasingly sophisticated concealment methods, from car parts to even household items like electric fans.
The agency reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding Canada’s borders, emphasizing that its officers remain vigilant against evolving methods of drug trafficking and transnational organized crime.
“This is a great example of the work CBSA officers are doing to disrupt organized crime and ensure our borders are secure. I have visited the Vancouver International Airport district and seen up close the commitment and dedication of CBSA employees. They are doing their part to protect Canadians at home and communities abroad,” said Minister of Public Safety, Gary Anandasangaree.
Regional Director General, Canada Border Services Agency, Pacific Region, Nina Patel, said, “This seizure represents millions of dollars kept out of the hands of criminals and demonstrates the strength in collaboration with our law enforcement partners. CBSA officers work around the clock to disrupt organized crime and prevent dangerous drugs from crossing our borders.”
“This successful intervention showcases the power of law enforcement collaboration. CBSA officers and RCMP Border Integrity officers worked together seamlessly from detection to seizure to the ongoing investigation. Together we’re dismantling the criminal networks that attempt to exploit our borders and we’ll continue this collaborative approach to protect our communities,” noted Acting Regional Commander, RCMP Federal Policing, Pacific Region, Stephen Lee.
