A joint operation done through the Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) between the RCMP, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and Calgary police led to a man being charged for allegedly importing $7 million of cocaine and heroin into Canada. .“This complex investigation, which spanned several months, is a great demonstration on the importance of collaboration between agencies,” said RCMP Supt. Sean Boser in a Thursday press release. .“Investigators were able to prevent 68 kg of cocaine and heroin from impacting Alberta’s communities and potentially saving lives.” .The release said the team engaged in an investigation into cross-border drug importation via commercial transport vehicles. It said the investigation led to 38 kg of cocaine and 30 kg of heroin being seized, which has a combined street value of about $7 million. .Edmonton resident David Phanthikane, 42, was charged with possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to Section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. .Phanthikane is scheduled to appear in Edmonton Provincial Court on Thursday. .“These charges are a great example of IBET’s effectiveness to stop illegal drugs at the border and keep our communities safe,” said CBSA Prairie Region Regional Director General Brad Wozny. .“The CBSA is proud to work alongside our law enforcement partners.” .Calgary police Acting Supt. Melanie Oncescu called the success of the operation a “testament to the strength of law enforcement working in partnership to better our communities.” .“Through excellent teamwork, we have been able to remove a substantial supply of drugs that were likely destined to target vulnerable addicted individuals,” said Oncescu. .This investigation comes after RCMP IBET, in partnership with the CBSA, charged Calgary truck driver Gurkirat Singh for allegedly importing cocaine into Canada on November 17..READ MORE: YES, HE HAD NO BANANAS: Calgarian charged after border security seizes 43 kg of cocaine ."Through our partnership with CBSA, as well as the support of various RCMP detachment members, we successfully prevented harmful drugs from being illegally imported into Canada and potentially causing significant harm to our communities,” said Boser. .A commercial transport vehicle entered the Coutts, AB, border crossing with a shipment of bananas on November 6. A secondary examination was initiated by CBSA officers, which revealed about 43 kg of cocaine hidden within the load.
