Police seized suspected heroin worth nearly $7 million at the Peace Bridge in December, following a targeted border inspection. OPP Photo
Police say a large shipment of suspected heroin never made it into Canada after officers stopped a tractor trailer at the Peace Bridge. Authorities seized 42 kilograms of the drug, with an estimated street value of just under $7 million, during a targeted border operation late last year.
The seizure took place at the Peace Bridge, which links Buffalo, New York, with Fort Erie, Ontario, one of the busiest commercial crossings between Canada and the United States.
Investigation Led by Border Intelligence
The case began weeks earlier, when the Ontario Provincial Police joined forces with the Border Enforcement Security Task Force, known as BEST. The task force includes the Canada Border Services Agency and operates under the leadership of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
Investigators focused on suspected drug trafficking activity involving heroin allegedly being brought into Canada from the United States. Using intelligence gathered through the investigation, officers flagged a tractor trailer attempting to cross into Canada on Dec. 18.
Search Leads to Discovery
Border officers conducted a routine inspection and then directed the truck for a more detailed examination. With the help of a detector dog, officers uncovered 42 kilograms of suspected heroin hidden inside the trailer.
“With the assistance of a CBSA detector dog, border services officers detected and seized 42 kilograms of suspected heroin concealed in the trailer,” the OPP and CBSA said in a joint statement.
Officers also seized the tractor and trailer as offence-related property. Two cellphones found during the search were turned over to police as part of the ongoing investigation.
Strong Message From Authorities
Officials say the drugs would have caused serious harm if they had reached communities in Ontario and beyond. Chief Superintendent Mike Stoddart of the OPP’s Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau praised the teamwork behind the operation.
“This seizure demonstrates the critical importance of intelligence-led policing and strong partnerships at our borders. The OPP, working closely with the Canada Border Services Agency and our BEST partners, remains committed to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into the communities we serve,” he said.
Michael Prosia, regional director general for the CBSA in southern Ontario, echoed those remarks and called the seizure “a great example of the excellent work and collaboration between the CBSA, the OPP and BEST.”
Investigation Continues
Police say the investigation remains active, and charges may follow as officers analyze evidence and track those involved. Authorities encourage anyone with information to contact police or provide tips anonymously through Crime Stoppers.
The seizure highlights the ongoing efforts by border agencies to stop illegal drugs from entering Canada and shows how shared intelligence and teamwork continue to play a key role in border safety.
