News release

Edmonton resident charged with drug importation

July 31, 2025 - Calgary, Alberta
From: Federal Policing Northwest Region

Content

On July 28, 2025, Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at the Coutts port of entry were conducting a secondary examination of commercial truck seeking entry into Canada from the United States. During the search, CBSA border services officers found a duffle bag containing nearly 67 kg of cocaine, and the driver was subsequently arrested.

The Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) in Alberta, a joint force operation between the RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region, CBSA and Calgary Police Service, was notified, and a criminal investigation was initiated into the driver and the seized drugs.

Trieu Thanh Ngoc Le (49), a resident of Edmonton, was arrested and charged with:

• Importing a controlled substance contrary to section 6(1) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act;
• Possession of a controlled substance for the purpose of trafficking contrary to section 5(2) of the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act; and,
• Smuggling into Canada contrary to section 159 of the Customs Act.

Le is scheduled to appear at the Alberta Court of Justice in Lethbridge on July 31, 2025.

IBET’s mandate is to enhance border integrity and security along the shared border, between designated ports of entry, by identifying, investigating and interdicting persons, organizations and goods that are involved in criminal activities.

Quotes

"This seizure at the Coutts port of entry demonstrates the effectiveness of CBSA’s detection capabilities and the important role our officers play to keep our communities safe. We remain committed to securing and protecting our border alongside our law enforcement partners."

Janalee Bell-Boychuk, Regional Director General, Prairie Region, Canada Border Services Agency

"Protecting our borders from illegal drug trafficking is not a task any one agency can tackle alone. Our strength lies in collaboration, and together, we are sending a clear message: Canada is not open for criminal business."

Supt. Sean Boser, Officer in Charge of Federal Serious Organized Crime and Border Integrity – Alberta, RCMP Federal Policing Northwest Region

"This successful disruption of criminal activity is a direct result of the unwavering collaboration between our partner agencies. Together, we are safeguarding Alberta’s communities. Our commitment to protecting the safety and well-being of all Albertans remains stronger than ever."

Acting Supt. Shanon Scott, Criminal Operations & Intelligence Division, Calgary Police Service

Contacts