$23.4 million in cocaine discovered in semi truck crossing from U.S. into Canada

Border authorities stopped a commercial vehicle driver from hauling a large shipment of cocaine over the Canada/U.S. border.

The drug seizure took place on May 23, 2025, at the Ambassador Bridge port of entry, according to a July 22 news release from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).

Officers encountered a commercial truck coming into Canada from the United States and referred the vehicle for a secondary inspection.

While searching the trailer, CBSA officers uncovered two suitcases and five garbage bags containing 161 bricks of suspected cocaine.

The estimated value of the seized cocaine is $23.4 million.

The truck driver, Ontario resident Kambiz Karandish, 55, was arrested and charged by the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with Importation of Cocaine, and Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.

The incident is under investigation.

“When CBSA intercepts an attempt to smuggle illegal drugs into Canada, they are acting as our first line of defence against organized crime and those who would profit from the illegal drug trade. In tandem with the RCMP, they are protecting communities throughout Canada and demonstrating to us all that keeping our borders secure is a national public safety priority, said Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety

“The ongoing efforts of our border services officers to intercept narcotics and weapons is to be commended. The CBSA is continually adapting to be in a position to stop criminals by disrupting their evolving smuggling and concealment attempts. We use all tools and intelligence at our disposal to stop narcotics from reaching our streets,” said – Michael Prosia, Regional Director General, Southern Ontario Region, Canada Border Services Agency.