Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers seized more than 500 kilograms of opium that was concealed inside large industrial paper rolls in a shipping container in British Columbia. The discovery was made during a routine inspection at a Vancouver port, according to a CBSA statement released Wednesday.
Details of the Seizure
The opium, weighing approximately 550 kilograms, was hidden within several massive rolls of paper typically used in industrial printing. The shipment originated from an undisclosed overseas location and was destined for a Canadian address. CBSA officers became suspicious during the examination and discovered the narcotics after cutting into the rolls.
“This is a significant seizure that demonstrates the vigilance of our officers in preventing illegal drugs from entering our communities,” said CBSA spokesperson Nina Patel. “We are committed to disrupting the supply chain of dangerous substances.”
Investigation Ongoing
The investigation is ongoing, and no arrests have been made yet. The CBSA is working with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) to trace the shipment and identify those responsible. The estimated street value of the opium has not been released, but experts say it could be worth millions of dollars.
Opium is a highly addictive narcotic used to produce heroin and other opioids. The seizure comes amid a worsening opioid crisis in Canada, which has seen thousands of overdose deaths annually. In 2025, more than 7,500 Canadians died from opioid-related overdoses, according to Health Canada.
Previous Seizures
This is not the first major opium bust at Canadian ports. In 2024, CBSA officers seized 200 kilograms of opium at the same Vancouver port, also hidden in industrial shipments. The agency has increased screening of cargo containers using advanced X-ray technology and detector dogs.
“We are constantly adapting our techniques to stay ahead of smugglers,” Patel added. “This seizure sends a clear message that we will not tolerate the trafficking of illicit drugs.”
