Law enforcement agencies have made a massive drug interception at a key Canada-U.S. crossing, preventing millions of dollars worth of narcotics from reaching Canadian streets. The significant seizure underscores ongoing collaborative efforts to combat cross-border smuggling.
Intelligence Probe Leads to Major Bust
According to a news release issued on Thursday, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) detailed a successful operation stemming from an intelligence-led investigation. The multi-agency Border Enforcement Security Task Force (BEST), which includes the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), initiated a probe in December 2025 into the alleged importation of heroin from the United States into Canada.
On December 18, 2025, officers from the OPP, CBSA Intelligence, and the National Targeting Centre identified a suspect tractor-trailer attempting to enter Canada. The vehicle was approaching via the Peace Bridge port of entry, which connects Buffalo, New York, to Fort Erie, Ontario.
The Discovery and Seizure
During an initial inspection, border services officers flagged the commercial vehicle for a more thorough examination. With the assistance of a CBSA detector dog, a detailed search was conducted. This led to the discovery and seizure of 42 kilograms of suspected heroin, cleverly concealed within the trailer.
The OPP estimates the street value of the confiscated drugs at a staggering $6.98 million. In addition to the narcotics, authorities seized the tractor and trailer as offence-related property, along with two cellphones, which were turned over to the OPP for further investigation.
Officials Hail Collaboration and Vigilance
Police officials praised the joint operation, emphasizing the critical role of partnership and intelligence sharing. OPP Chief Superintendent Mike Stoddart of the Organized Crime Enforcement Bureau stated that the seizure demonstrates the importance of intelligence-led policing and strong partnerships at the border.
"The OPP, working closely with the Canada Border Services Agency and our BEST partners, remains committed to disrupting the flow of illegal drugs into the communities we serve," Stoddart said in the official statement.
Michael Prosia, the CBSA’s Regional Director General for the Southern Ontario Region, echoed this sentiment. "This seizure is a great example of the excellent work and collaboration between the CBSA, the OPP and BEST," Prosia said. "Partnerships and information sharing between law enforcement agencies yield real results for Canadians. The CBSA is committed to protecting the border and keeping illicit narcotics off our streets."
The OPP news release did not announce any immediate arrests or charges related to this seizure, indicating the investigation is likely ongoing. Authorities are urging the public to come forward with any information regarding drug importation or trafficking.
Anyone with details is asked to contact the OPP at 1-888-310-1122 or to provide an anonymous tip through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or via ontariocrimestoppers.ca.
