A 55-year-old man from Richmond Hill, identified as Kambiz Karandish, is currently facing serious drug smuggling charges after attempting to enter Canada from the United States at the Ambassador Bridge. The incident occurred on May 23, 2025, when Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers conducted a routine inspection of his commercial truck, which was crossing the bridge linking Windsor, Ontario, and Michigan.
During a secondary examination of the trailer, CBSA officers discovered two suitcases along with five garbage bags that contained a total of 161 bricks of suspected cocaine. This significant drug bust resulted in the seizure of 187.5 kilograms of cocaine, with an estimated street value of approximately $23.4 million.
Following the discovery, Kambiz Karandish was arrested and subsequently transferred to the custody of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP). He is facing multiple charges, including Importation of Cocaine and Possession of Cocaine for the Purpose of Trafficking under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act.
The collaborative efforts of CBSA and the RCMP have been underscored by Superintendent James Parr, who serves as the Acting Officer in Charge of Criminal Operations for the RCMP Central Region. He stated that the operation successfully prevented a large quantity of dangerous drugs from entering Canadian communities. This seizure highlights the ongoing commitment of the RCMP to disrupt and dismantle organized crime, showcasing the dedicated teamwork between law enforcement agencies.
The incident reflects a larger trend in drug smuggling operations that persist along the Canada-U.S. border, where criminal organizations frequently attempt to traffic illegal substances. The Ambassador Bridge, being one of the busiest international crossings, has often been a focal point for such illicit activities.
Law enforcement agencies continue to enhance their inspection protocols and develop strategic partnerships to effectively combat drug trafficking and organized crime. The swift actions of the CBSA in this case illustrate their vigilance in monitoring and inspecting commercial vehicles, contributing significantly to public safety.
In summary, the seizure at the Ambassador Bridge not only represents a significant victory for Canadian law enforcement but also serves as a warning to those involved in drug trafficking that efforts to undermine the security of the border will not be tolerated. Continuous collaboration among agencies like the CBSA and the RCMP is vital to the ongoing fight against drug smuggling and organized crime in Canada.
