The Canada Border Services Agency said it seized $3 million worth of cocaine at the Coutts border crossing on November 19, 2023. (Photo: CBSA)

By David Opinko

Officials seize $3 million in cocaine at Coutts border crossing

Dec 20, 2023 | 6:51 AM

COUTTS, AB – Border officials in southern Alberta have made a significant drug seizure.

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) said, on November 19, 2023, a commercial truck trailer attempted to cross the international border when it was pulled aside for a secondary examination.

Inside the vehicle, officers allege to have found 52 kilograms of cocaine with an estimated street value of approximately $3 million.

CBSA Regional Director General for the Prairie Region Janalee Bell-Boychuk commended the work of not only the CBSA in the investigation, but also their partners in the RCMP and Calgary Police Service.

She said the safety and security of Canadians is their top priority.

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“By stopping illegal drugs at the border, we’re reducing the risk of harm to Canadians and keeping our communities safe. This seizure is another example of the ongoing cooperation between the CBSA and the RCMP in protecting Canadians,” said Bell-Boychuk.

Kamalpreet Singh, 28, of Calgary, is charged with one count each of importation of a controlled substance, possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, and smuggling into Canada.

He is scheduled to appear in Lethbridge Provincial Court on January 2, 2024.