A significant drug bust at the Canada-U.S. border last year has led to charges against two men from Mississauga and Brampton. Bricks of cocaine, estimated to be worth up to $2 million, were discovered in a truck at an Ontario border crossing, according to recent reports.
The international drug seizure took place in April of last year when a transport truck crossing the Blue Water Bridge from Michigan into Ontario was found to be carrying more than half a tonne of cocaine, packaged in bricks, as reported by the London Free Press. The illegal load was valued between $1.2 million and $2 million.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) initially charged a 30-year-old man from Mississauga with unlawful importation and drug trafficking-related offences. Over a year later, a 43-year-old man from Brampton has also been charged with trafficking, importation, and conspiracy offences in connection with the seizure.
According to reports, the accused from Brampton allegedly conspired with the Mississauga driver to import cocaine into Canada between February and April 15 of last year. The charges were dated April 11, 2023, coinciding with the day of the Blue Water Bridge bust.
The individuals charged are Lakhan Singh, 30, of Mississauga, and Harpreet Malhi, 43, of Brampton. Harpreet Malhi is scheduled to attend a bail hearing on Monday.
This case highlights the ongoing efforts of law enforcement to combat drug trafficking and the importation of illegal substances into Canada. The RCMP and border authorities continue to work diligently to intercept and prevent such activities, ensuring the safety and security of Canadian communities.