BC's largest-ever opium seizure ends with four arrests - Vancouver Sun

METRO VANCOUVER -- The RCMP and border agents teamed up earlier this month to seize the largest-ever opium shipment ever intercepted in B.C.

Four people have been arrested in connection with the seizure of almost 57 kilos of opium that arrived on an air cargo delivery from Iran on Jan. 6.

The opium was secreted in a 550-kilogram tombstone that was shipped to Vancouver International Airport.

"While conducting a secondary examination on the tombstone, CBSA officers discovered a cavity inside containing 56.8 kg of opium. Officers seized the illicit drug," S.Sgt. Dave Goddard said in a news release.

But investigators allowed the tombstone to be delivered anyway to the address linked to the shipment, which was in the 700-block of Gauthier Avenue in Coquitlam.

The following day, Jan. 14, the RCMP executed a search warrant at the same address and arrested a 39-year-old female who resides in the home, Goddard said.

"Later that evening, her 48-year-old husband also living at this address, turned himself into police. On Jan. 15, a 51-year-old male who rents space at this location was arrested in North Vancouver. On Jan. 19, his 55-year-old brother was also arrested in North Vancouver, both in connection to the opium package," he said.

"This opium seizure was unprecedented because of the total quantity of the drug seized here in Canada. The concern for public safety, due to an array of harmful effects to those who consume the substance, which is very similar to the effects of heroin, is very concerning. We will continue to work with CBSA to investigate and arrest those who attempt to import illegal substances into our country.|"

Goddard said the concealment method was quite unique.

And Canada Border Services Agency official Yvette-Monique Gray praised the cooperation between police and the CBSA.

"The interception and arrest really highlight the work the CBSA and RCMP do in partnership to prevent illegal narcotics from getting across our borders and harming our communities," she said.

Charges are being recommended, but have not yet been approved by the Public Prosecution Services Canada.

Federal Public Safety Minister Vic Toews praised the efforts of the two agencies.

"I would like to congratulate law enforcement officials whose outstanding efforts have prevented dangerous illegal drugs from hitting our streets," Toews said. "The RCMP and CBSA, through their partnership and coordinated efforts, have once again taken significant action to keep our communities safe."

He said his government has taken a tough stance against the drug trade in Canada.

"The government's message is clear — the production, trafficking and distribution of illegal drugs in our communities will not be tolerated. We are committed to giving law enforcement the tools they need to keep our communities safe."

kbolan@vancouversun.com

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