The Canada Border Services Agency says nearly 2,500 kilograms of opium have been seized at the Port of Vancouver, the largest seizure in the agency's history.
The drugs were found hidden at the foot of a mass of blue shipping pallets. According to the CBSA, officials noticed irregularities on the pallet and used X-ray technology to trace the drugs.
A total of 2486kg of opium was found in 247 pallets. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police estimated the market value of the drug at more than $50 million.
The operation began on Oct. 25 when the CBSA's Greater Vancouver Maritime Operations unit began inspecting the contents of 19 ocean shipping containers.
CBSA Regional Director Nina Patel said the search was initiated by CBSA intelligence and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
"The interception of this shipment and this record-breaking seizure of opium demonstrates the CBSA commitment to keeping our communities safe," said Patel.
Opium was handed over to the federal Serious and Organized Crime Unit of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police. No arrests have been made.
-CBC
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