The RCMP and the CBSA announced today that four arrests have been made in Mississauga, Ontario, after foiling attempts to smuggle Ketamine, a dangerous anesthetic, from coming into Canada.
Between Feb. 18 and March 3 four separate individuals arrived at Toronto Pearson International Airport after arriving from Europe. Baggage examinations by the CBSA uncovered alleged Ketamine concealed inside their luggage, amounting to an approximate total of 154 kilograms with an estimated street value of $4,608,000.
These seizures are yet another example of Canada’s Border Plan in action and the effective partnership between the CBSA and the RCMP in stopping drug trafficking,” said David J. McGuinty, federal Minister of Public Safety and Emergency Preparedness. “Ketamine poses a significant threat to public health, and our law enforcement agencies are keeping our communities safe, both in Canada and abroad.”
Ketamine is an odorless and colourless drug that is used as a medical anesthetic in liquid form, but is often illicitly sold in powder form. There are several mental, physical, and long term effects associated with taking Ketamine. When taken, it can distort how an individual experiences sight and sound, and interferes with one’s ability to perceive pain. Due to these effects, it can sometimes be used to commit sexual assault.
“Ketamine is a strong anesthetic and it’s use has been the cause of many deaths including the death of Canadian actor Matthew Perry,” said Inspector John McMath Officer in Charge, RCMP Toronto Airport Detachment.
Lisa Janes, Regional Director General, Canada Border Services Agency, Greater Toronto Area Region, said hese seizures exemplify the hard work of our border services officers with our RCMP partners who employ targeting and intelligence methods to protect the health and safety of Canadians.
“Ketamine is a lethal substance that poses a significant risk to the safety of Canadians, and the CBSA is committed to securing Canada’s border from drug threats like this one.”
The CBSA seized the Ketamine and arrested the travellers. The RCMP Central Region Toronto Airport Detachment, Border Integrity Response team has charged:
- Alison Louise Olmes (63), of Caledon, Ontario, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 30.8 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
- Courtney Linda Johanne Desbois (27), of Toronto, Ontario, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 31.8 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
- Lamia Hamici (40), of Montreal, Quebec, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 60 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
- Britney Carolyn Allen (32), of Whitby, Ontario, with Importing a Controlled Substance, contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA) for smuggling 30.95 kilograms of suspected Ketamine into Canada
All accused have been released on an undertaking and are expected to appear at the A. Grenville and William Davis Courthouse in Brampton on March 26, 2025, and April 9, 2025
