RCMP and CBSA arrest passengers attempting to smuggle over $175,000 of cannabis to the UK

| Staff

On November 14, two separate individuals arrived at Toronto Pearson International Airport with a scheduled departure flight to London, United Kingdom (UK). Outbound baggage examinations by the CBSA uncovered two separate cases of alleged cannabis concealed inside the luggage, amounting to an approximate total of 45 kilograms with an estimated street value of $175,000.

The CBSA seized the cannabis and arrested the travelers. The Central Region Toronto Airport Detachment, Border Integrity Response team has charged:

  • Krystle Lee Paula Cormack (40), having possessed 21.95 kilograms of cannabis was arrested and charged with Export contrary to section 11(2) of the Cannabis Act.
  • Channelle Monique Atherton (32), having possessed 22.5 kilograms of cannabis was arrested and charged with Export contrary to section 11(2) of the Cannabis Act.

Both accused have been released on an undertaking and are expected to appear at the A. Grenville and William Davis Courthouse in Brampton on February 12, 2025.

The Central Region Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) are cautioning travelers to be aware that it is illegal to bring any amount of cannabis onto any international flight.

“If you are a victim, or believe you have been targeted by a criminal organization to transport cannabis, report the incident to your local police. Don’t carry luggage for others, awareness is your best defence. Be suspicious of any offer that sounds too good to be true, as you will be held responsible and that dream vacation could end up turning into a trip to prison.” – Inspector John McMath Officer in Charge, RCMP Toronto Airport Detachment.“CBSA’s Border Services Officers work tirelessly to stop the illegal importation and exportation of drugs. Together, the CBSA and the RCMP keep our borders safe and hold those who violate Canada laws accountable. Their efforts support public safety both in Canada and globally.” – Lisa Janes, Regional Director General, Canada Border Services Agency, Greater Toronto Area Region

CBSA has intercepted large amounts of cannabis in recent months en route to the UK. CBSA has seized thousands of kilograms of cannabis in the first half of 2024-2025. In November 2024, two Chinese nationals in UK jailed for importing cannabis from Canada in “significant criminal enterprise”

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