Positive shifts since cannabis legalization, but more health data still needed, says researcher
The seizure of more than a ton of weed is now under investigation by Homeland Security Investigations in the U.S.
Officers found 2,302 packages of vacuum-sealed marijuana. / PHOTO BY U.S. CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION
Criminal organizations are still focused on trying to get illegal drugs through border points, as evidenced by a recent seizure of 2,554 pounds (about 1,160 kilograms) of cannabis in Buffalo, N.Y.
The illicit cargo was found last week when officers with U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) assigned to the Peace Bridge selected a commercial vehicle manifested as “bathroom vanities” for an extra look after anomalies were found.
Officers estimated the haul had a street value of US$5 million ($6.2 million).
“Criminal organizations continue to attempt to exploit the border for their personal gain. However, the skills, training and dedication of our officers have once again halted their plan,” says acting Buffalo Port director John Madsen.
The drugs have been handed over to Homeland Security Investigations (HSI).
Officers estimated the haul manifested as bathroom vanities had a street value of US$5 million ($6.2 million). / PHOTO BY U.S. CUSTOMS AND BORDER PROTECTION
“Through the HSI Border Enforcement Security Task Force, HSI will continue to investigate these significant seizures, with our Canadian law enforcement partners, to combat the transnational criminal networks that threaten our international region,” adds Matthew Scarpino, acting Special Agent in Charge of HSI Buffalo.
For the Canada/U.S. border, the Peace Bridge is one of the busiest spots, with the volume of automobiles, trucks and buses between Canada and the U.S. numbering 218,841 so far this year, note figures from The Peace Bridge.
It is also a very busy spot for drug seizures.
For example, in September of 2020, the Buffalo Field Office reported it had made 732 seizures totalling more than 40,600 pounds (18,416 kg) of narcotics from Oct. 1, 2019, through Aug. 31, 2020.
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