A British Columbia man who was indicted in the United States on drug trafficking charges had previously fought off deportation from Canada in 2008, despite having a drug conviction on his record. The case highlights potential gaps in Canada's immigration enforcement system.
Indictment details
Gurtej Singh Smagh, 45, of Surrey, B.C., was among three men named in a U.S. federal indictment unsealed on July 7, 2026. The indictment alleges they conspired to smuggle large quantities of methamphetamine and cocaine into the United States. A photo released with the indictment shows an alleged drug shipment intercepted during the investigation.
Smagh, along with Ravinder Singh Dhanda and Jaskarn Baghri, faces multiple charges including conspiracy to distribute controlled substances. The U.S. Department of Justice is seeking their extradition.
2008 deportation battle
Court records show that Smagh was ordered deported from Canada in 2008 after being convicted of drug trafficking in British Columbia. However, he successfully appealed the deportation order, arguing that he would face persecution if returned to his home country. The Immigration and Refugee Board granted his appeal, allowing him to remain in Canada.
According to immigration lawyer Sarah Thompson, who is not involved in the case, “The fact that someone with a drug conviction can avoid deportation raises serious questions about the effectiveness of our immigration system. It appears that a prior criminal record was not sufficient to overcome his claims of risk upon return.”
Ongoing investigation
The U.S. indictment is part of a larger cross-border investigation into drug trafficking networks operating between Canada and the United States. Authorities have not disclosed the full scope of the operation but say it involved multiple shipments over several years.
Canadian officials have not commented on the case, but extradition proceedings are expected to begin soon. Smagh's current whereabouts are unknown, though he is believed to still be in Canada.
