2024 Year in Review for the Northern Ontario Region: CBSA Seizes 253 Weapons and Firearms and Makes 745 Drug Seizures
Thunder Bay, ON – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) released its annual report for the Northern Ontario Region, highlighting significant seizures of weapons, firearms, and drugs in 2024.
Weapons and Firearms
CBSA officers in the Northern Ontario Region seized a total of 253 weapons and firearms in 2024, an increase from the 187 seized in 2023. The majority of the seized weapons were handguns (152), followed by rifles (67) and shotguns (18).
“These seizures represent a significant disruption to the illicit firearms trade in our region,” said Regional Director General Mike Vanderlaan. “We are committed to working with our law enforcement partners to keep our communities safe.”
Drugs
CBSA officers also made 745 drug seizures in the Northern Ontario Region in 2024, a decrease from the 863 seizures in 2023. The majority of the seized drugs were marijuana (456), followed by cocaine (123) and fentanyl (89).
“The opioid crisis continues to be a major challenge in our region,” said Vanderlaan. “We are working closely with our partners to target drug traffickers and prevent the flow of illicit drugs into our communities.”
Other Highlights
In addition to weapons and drugs, CBSA officers in the Northern Ontario Region also made a number of other significant seizures in 2024, including:
- $2.2 million in undeclared currency
- 12,000 counterfeit goods
- 23 vehicles used in smuggling operations
Enforcement Actions
As a result of the seizures made in 2024, CBSA officers laid 47 criminal charges and initiated 260 administrative monetary penalty notices.
Partnerships
CBSA works closely with a variety of law enforcement partners, including the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), and Toronto Police Service. These partnerships are essential in coordinating intelligence, sharing resources, and conducting joint operations.
Community Engagement
CBSA officers also engage with the community through public education campaigns and school outreach programs. These initiatives are designed to raise awareness about the dangers of smuggling and the importance of border security.
Conclusion
The CBSA’s 2024 Year in Review for the Northern Ontario Region demonstrates the agency’s commitment to protecting Canada’s borders and keeping our communities safe. The agency’s ongoing efforts to combat smuggling and illicit trade will continue to play a vital role in ensuring the safety and security of all Canadians.
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