An Air Canada aircraft sits on the tarmac at Toronto’s Pearson Airport on Wednesday, July 24, 2024. THE CANAD
Police have charged an airline employee after officers uncovered a large amount of cannabis hidden in checked luggage at Toronto’s main airport. The incident unfolded at Toronto Pearson International Airport on February 19, when border officers flagged two suitcases during routine checks.
Officials from the Canada Border Services Agency found 33 kilograms of cannabis in each bag. The luggage belonged to two travellers from Germany who planned to board separate flights home. Together, the seized drugs weighed 66 kilograms.
Passengers Caught Off Guard
Authorities quickly detained both travellers. The two individuals did not know each other and travelled separately. Each denied any connection to the bags. Investigators soon confirmed their claims after reviewing the situation more closely.
Police noted that both suitcases looked identical and neither traveller had checked them in personally. This detail raised concerns and led officers to dig deeper into how the bags entered the system.
Investigation Points to Insider
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police launched an investigation and traced the source of the suspicious luggage. Officers discovered that someone working behind the scenes had attached baggage tags to the suitcases.
“Investigators found that an Air Canada employee working in the baggage room, had placed luggage tags bearing the unsuspecting passengers’ names onto the suitcases that contained the cannabis,” police said.
This discovery shifted the focus away from the travellers and toward airport staff.
Charges Laid Against Employee
On March 12, officers arrested 32-year-old Atasha Weathley, a resident of Mississauga. Authorities charged her with possession for the purpose of export and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
The two German passengers walked free after police confirmed they had no role in the incident.
Officials Stress Accountability
Law enforcement officials say the case highlights the risks when someone misuses a trusted position within the airline industry.
“This investigation demonstrates the commitment of the RCMP and CBSA to protecting the integrity of Canada’s cross–border air transportation system. Individuals who attempt to exploit their position of trust within the aviation industry to facilitate illegal activity will be held accountable,” RCMP Supt. Dale Foote said in a statement.
Court Appearance Scheduled
Authorities held Weathley for a bail hearing before releasing her under certain conditions. She will appear in a Brampton court on April 10 to face the charges.
Police continue to remind the public that security checks at airports remain strict, and officers will act quickly when they detect suspicious activity.
