A Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer is facing multiple criminal charges after allegedly allowing a transport truck loaded with millions of dollars worth of contraband to cross into Ontario without proper inspection, according to the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP).
Police say the incident took place at the Queenston-Lewiston port of entry in Niagara-on-the-Lake, a major crossing between Canada and the United States. The officer, identified as Daniel Notarianni, was first arrested in January 2026 after investigators determined he failed to follow CBSA procedures when the truck entered Canada carrying opium, cannabis products and tobacco.
The truck driver, Abhishek Abhishek, was also arrested and charged in connection with the case.
On March 6, both men were formally charged with a series of serious offences, including conspiracy to import a Schedule I substance, trafficking, importation, possession for the purpose of trafficking, distribution under the Cannabis Act, and transportation and possession of tobacco for the purpose of sale.
Notarianni is scheduled to appear in court in Welland, Ontario on March 23, while the driver is expected to appear on April 9.
Authorities say the investigation began after CBSA itself raised concerns about the incident, highlighting internal accountability measures within the agency. RCMP Superintendent Dale Foote emphasized that the case reflects strong cooperation between agencies and a commitment to maintaining the integrity of Canada’s borders.
The case has raised concerns about border security and compliance at high-volume commercial crossings, where strict enforcement protocols are critical to preventing illegal goods and organized criminal activity from entering the country.