Lethbridge NewsUpdated information regarding biggest firearm seizure in the history of the Coutts border
This story was originally posted on February 23, and on July 27 new information regarding this incident was announced.
Yesterday, The Canada Border Services Agency announced the seizure of a large cache of firearms and weapons.
Officers at the Coutts port of entry seized 75 firearms, including 48 handguns (four of which were loaded), one blowgun, one pistol crossbow, and 12 high capacity magazines. This is the largest handgun seizure in the history of the port of Coutts.
On February 21, a Florida resident arrived at the port of Coutts, heading to Alaska. When asked by officers if he had any firearms, he declared that he had none. Officers began a secondary examination of his vehicle, where they discovered the guns and accessories hidden inside his pickup truck. The officers seized the weapons.
George Foster, 54, was arrested and turned over to the RCMP. He faces ten charges, however as the investigation unfolds, additional charges may be pending. Foster was scheduled to appear in Lethbridge Provincial Court today.
“This seizure demonstrates the commitment CBSA officers have in making sure our borders aren’t used for illegal activity,” said Lauren D. Delgaty, Regional Director General, CBSA Prairie Region. “Our firearms laws are clear and these enforcement actions help keep Canada’s communities safe and secure.”
The CBSA reminds all travellers that they are required to declare all goods they are bringing into Canada, including any firearms and weapons in their possession. Failure to declare goods (including firearms) and other Customs Act contraventions may lead to prosecution in a court of law.
On July 24, Foster pled guilty to four Criminal Code offences and two Customs Act offences in Lethbridge Provincial Court. It is reported he received a three year sentence for these offences.
