On October 21 a Canadian air passenger arrived at the Toronto Pearson International Airport with a scheduled departure flight to London, United Kingdom (UK).
An outbound baggage examination by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) found approximately 40 kilograms of cannabis concealed inside his luggage.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Toronto Airport Detachment seized the cannabis and arrested and charged Zubir MAHIDA, 21, with Export contrary to section 11(2) of the Cannabis Act.
The approximate street value of the cannabis that was seized is $120,000 CAN and the maximum sentence for cannabis importation in the UK is up to 14 years in prison.
Zubir Mahida appeared for a hearing and was released on an undertaking to appear in Brampton court on November 28, 2024.
“Reducing the flow of inbound and outbound cannabis is a priority of RCMP Toronto Airport Detachment,” said Inspector John McMath Officer in Charge, RCMP Toronto Airport Detachment. “Cannabis is decriminalized in Canada but it is illegal to carry any amount of cannabis on international flights and amounts exceeding personal use, on domestic flights. This case highlights the fact that if a passenger chooses to smuggle cannabis, serious criminal drug smuggling charges will apply.”
Lisa Janes, Regional Director General, Canada Border Services Agency, Greater Toronto Area Region, said that Although cannabis has been legalized and regulated in Canada, it remains illegal to bring it into or take it out of the country.
