Two Air Canada workers arrested in Montreal drug trafficking probe

RCMP arrested two Air Canada ground operations employees linked to a cocaine and cannabis trafficking scheme at Montreal–Trudeau International Airport.

Air Canada staff suspended after RCMP drug bust at Montreal–Trudeau Airport

Global News Crime reports that two Air Canada employees have been arrested in connection with a drug trafficking investigation at Montreal–Trudeau International Airport, with search warrants executed Wednesday at two residences, a vehicle in the Greater Montreal area, and the employees' work base in Dorval.

The pair held positions related to ground operations at Air Canada. Both the airline and ADM Aéroports de Montréal are assisting the RCMP in the ongoing probe.

The investigation was launched in May after the Canada Border Services Agency intercepted 62.5 kg of cocaine concealed in backpacks aboard a flight arriving from Punta Cana. Authorities also seized 56 kg of cannabis during the operation.

According to the RCMP, the two suspects "are alleged to have participated in a conspiracy to bring and move luggage through secure areas of the airport to facilitate the importation of cocaine and the exportation of cannabis."

The RCMP added that the individuals will be questioned and released pending further proceedings, and that analysis of the evidence gathered could lead to additional arrests and charges.

Air Canada confirmed the arrests and said both employees have been suspended. "Air Canada has been informed of the investigation into two of its employees and their arrest. We are cooperating fully with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police," a company spokesperson said in a statement. "Out of respect for the ongoing proceedings and our obligations to protect our employees' privacy, we will not comment further."

Anyone with information relevant to the investigation is asked to contact police.

Source: Global News Crime