Transport Minister Steven MacKinnon has publicly addressed a concerning airport bag tag scheme where employees allegedly used unsuspecting travelers as drug mules. During committee testimony, Conservative MP Dan Albas challenged MacKinnon, asking for a concrete measure taken beyond discussions with officials.
Minister's Response
MacKinnon stated that airport worker credentials are revoked regularly. "We have a constant system of ongoing revocation of credentials," he said. He noted that many individuals implicated in a recent television report had their credentials revoked. However, when pressed for specific actions, MacKinnon could not provide an example, citing the complexity of the systems involved.
"These are very intricate and delicate interconnected systems," MacKinnon explained, adding that he would not act rashly. He emphasized that security in federal transportation infrastructure remains a top priority.
Background of the Scam
The exchange follows a CTV News investigation revealing a widespread criminal operation where airport workers swapped passengers' luggage tags onto drug-laden suitcases. At least 17 passengers on flights from Canada were detained on drug smuggling allegations in the past year due to the scam. In some cases, innocent travelers were arrested when foreign customs discovered the drugs.
One incident involved two German citizens whose bags contained 33 kilograms of cannabis. An Air Canada employee had allegedly placed their luggage tags on the drug-filled suitcases. The passengers were released, and the employee was charged.
Expert Recommendations
National Post previously consulted Mitesh Shah, CEO of Empire Protection, who suggested steps airports can take to prevent such incidents, including enhanced security measures and employee monitoring.
