News Release

Significant quantity of khat seized by CBSA at Edmonton International Airport

Edmonton, Alberta, March 9, 2012 – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced today that officers at the Edmonton International Airport have seized over 50 kg of khat.

On Wednesday, March 7, CBSA officers seized over 50 kg of khat from two British nationals travelling together. The khat was found in two checked bags during secondary examination. CBSA officers arrested the travellers and they were refused entry into Canada.

CBSA officers play an essential role in intercepting illegal drugs and other contraband items from entering Canada at our ports of entry. This seizure is a direct result of an anonymous tip made to the CBSA.

In 2011, CBSA officers in Edmonton seized a combined total of 120 kg, 78 litres and 17,900 doses of drugs.

The CBSA welcomes all tips on suspicious cross-border activity. Please call the Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1-888-502-9060.

– 30 –

For media information

Lisa White
CBSA Communications
403-292-4011

---