CBSA officers seized multiple shipment at the international mail and cargo processing facilities in Mississauga, Ont. and Vancouver, B.C.
On Feb. 27, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and RCMP said they seized narcotics, including Nitazenes – a synthetic opioid which can be up to 20 times more potent than Fentanyl.
Nitazenes are used to “cut” street drugs in Canada, and their high potency can increase the risk of overdose, particularly when mixed with other substances. Authorities arrested Matthew Phan, 36, of Mississauga, and seized drugs.
“Nitazenes pose a significant threat to public health, and these joint investigations and resulting enforcement actions keep our communities safe, both in Canada and abroad,” said David J. McGuinty, federal Minister of Public Safety.
Inspector Nicole Noonan, Officer in charge of Federal Policing – Integrated Response & Organized Crime for the RCMP said this extremely toxic substance severely amplifies the risk of accidental overdose for all drug users.
CBSA border services officers at the international mail and cargo processing facilities in Mississauga, and Vancouver, B.C., seized multiple shipments of synthetic opioids arriving from China and destined to an address in Mississauga.
Officers also intercepted additional shipments intended for international export. Using various investigative techniques, the CBSA’s Greater Toronto Area Region’s Intelligence section provided the RCMP with the evidence required to obtain a search and arrest warrant.
On Jan. 3, 2025, the RCMP’s Transnational Serious & Organized Crime seized over 5 kg of narcotics, drug paraphernalia, more than $120,000 CAD in cash and other proceeds of crime—including luxury watches and precious metals—from the Phan’s home in Mississauga.
RCMP charged Phan with trafficking Etonitazene a Schedule I controlled substance, trafficking Fencamfamine a Schedule 4 controlled substance, possession of Etonitazene for the purpose of trafficking, possession of MDMA for the purpose of trafficking, possession of methamphetamine for the purpose of trafficking, possession of Fencamfamine for the purpose of trafficking, unlawful attempt to export Etonitazene, unlawful attempt to export Fencamfamine, and unlawful possession of property obtained by crime.
Phan remains in custody.
As part of Canada’s Border Plan, the CBSA has launched Operation Blizzard, a targeted, cross-country initiative aimed at intercepting illegal contraband arriving and leaving Canada, with a focus on fentanyl and other synthetic narcotics.
To report suspicious cross border activities, you can contact the CBSA by using the confidential Border Watch Line online or toll free at 1888 502 9060
