The Canada Border Services Agency has charged a British Columbia resident with 21 criminal counts following the seizure of illegal firearms and controlled substances at his Vancouver residence. Dylan James Kennedy now faces legal proceedings for his alleged involvement in the possession and trafficking of weapons and drugs.
Investigation and Seizure Details
On August 28, 2024, CBSA criminal investigators, supported by the Vancouver Police Emergency Response Team, executed a search warrant at Kennedy's home in Vancouver. The operation led to the discovery of six firearms, including two 3D-printed Glock-type pistols, two 3D-printed Glock-type frames, a semi-automatic rifle, and a modified air pistol resembling a Glock. Additionally, authorities found multiple replica firearms, an over-capacity rifle cartridge magazine, a firearm suppressor, various calibres of ammunition, and a substantial number of firearm parts such as pistol slides and barrels.
During the search, law enforcement also uncovered illicit drugs, including cocaine, ketamine, MDA (amphetamines), and MDMA (ecstasy) pills. Drug paraphernalia, such as weigh scales, and six cellular phones were also seized as evidence.
Charges Laid
On March 31, 2026, Kennedy was formally charged with 21 offences. The charges include five counts of careless use or storage of a firearm under Section 86(1) of the Criminal Code, four counts of possession for the purpose of trafficking under Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, four counts of possession of a firearm without a licence or registration under Section 91(1) of the Criminal Code, four counts of possession of a prohibited device without authorization under Section 91(2), three counts of possession of a prohibited or restricted firearm with ammunition under Section 95(1), and one count of breach of an undertaking under Section 145(4) of the Criminal Code.
Kennedy appeared in Vancouver Provincial Court on April 7 and was released on bail pending trial.
Official Statements
Minister of Public Safety, the Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, commented: "On the National Day Against Gun Violence, we affirm our commitment to combat crime and build safer communities across Canada. The Canada Border Services Agency and local law enforcement partners are working together to keep illegal guns and drugs off our streets, in Vancouver and across the country."
Nina Patel, Regional Director General for the Pacific Region of the CBSA, added: "The Canada Border Services Agency is committed to keeping illegal firearms out of our communities. The laying of 21 charges sends a clear message: those who import illegal firearms and endanger public safety will be held accountable. We want to thank the Vancouver Police Department for their support with this investigation."
Quick Facts
- In 2025, CBSA officers in British Columbia seized 2,640 firearms, weapons, and prohibited devices.
- A list of restricted and prohibited goods, including prohibited weapons, is available on the CBSA website.
- Smuggling and other contraventions of the Customs Act, Controlled Drugs and Substances Act, and Criminal Code may lead to arrest, criminal charges, and prosecution. For foreign nationals, this may result in removal from Canada and a ban on returning.
- The Border Plan represents the largest single investment in border security in Canadian history, with over $355 million allocated to help the CBSA strengthen frontline operations and acquire advanced tools and technology to combat drug and firearm smuggling.
- Individuals with information about suspicious cross-border activity are encouraged to contact the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.
This case underscores the collaborative efforts of Canadian law enforcement agencies to address gun violence and drug trafficking, ensuring public safety across the nation.
