The Canada Border Services Agency said it seized $3.6 million worth of methamphetamine at the Coutts border crossing on February 19, 2023. (Photo: CBSA)

By David Opinko

Border officers seize $3.6 million worth of drugs at Coutts

Mar 23, 2023 | 9:50 AM

COUTTS, AB – Law enforcement officials say they have made one of the largest drug seizures in recent years at an international border crossing in southern Alberta.

According to a news release from the Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET), RCMP, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and Calgary Police Service (CPS), a Calgary man is charged with offences related to alleged drug importation and trafficking.

At the Coutts border crossing on February 19, 2023, the CBSA said approximately 300 kilograms of methamphetamine was discovered following a secondary examination of a commercial transport vehicle.

The CBSA adds that the drugs have an approximate street value of $3.6 million and were hidden in several boxes in the back of the vehicle.

CBSA Director for Southern Alberta and Saskatchewan District Benjamin Tame said, “CBSA officers are committed to detecting and intercepting illegal narcotics and other dangerous goods from entering Canada. This significant methamphetamine seizure, one of the Agency’s largest in the last five years, is a great example of our officers’ resolve in keeping dangerous drugs out of our communities.”

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CPS Superintendent Sean Boser adds that, by intercepting these drugs, millions of dollars in illegal profits have been disrupted.

Paramjit Laroyia, 49, of Calgary, is charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking, importation of a controlled substance, and smuggling into Canada.

Laroyia is scheduled to appear in Lethbridge Provincial Court on March 23, 2023.

READ MORE: Lethbridge News Now