Two firearms, ammunition and a vehicle were seized recently at Cascade border crossing.
Border services officers at Cascade Point of Entry discovered two loaded handguns and five magazines during a vehicle examination on July 21. The guns and magazines were found under the sleeping bed of a travel trailer.
The traveler was arrested and Canada Border Services Agency’s (CBSA) Criminal Investigations Section is currently pursuing charges.
The traveler paid a $2,000 fine for the release of the vehicle, as well as $500 for his release based on recognizance to appear in court when summoned.
“These interceptions and the consequences imposed emphasize the severity of this matter,” said Anita Andersson, director, Okanagan and Kootenay district, CBSA. “Firearm laws, when entering Canada, are clear and our border services officers are always on the lookout for illegal goods that could compromise the safety and security of Canada.”
• From Jan. 1 to July 22, border services officers made 30 seizures of firearms, weapons, parts and ammunition in the Okanagan and Kootenay districts. A total of 22 firearms were seized (eight prohibited, 10 restricted and four non-restricted).
• Fifteen of these firearm seizures (21 firearms seized) took place during the summer months from May 1 through July 22. CBSA advises travelers that they are required to declare all goods they are bringing into Canada including any firearms and weapons.
• Canadian residents and non-residents importing firearms and weapons into Canada must declare them and meet all licensing and registration requirements under the Firearm Act.
• Failure to declare goods, including firearms, and other Customs Acts contraventions may lead to prosecution in a court of law.
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