An Air Canada employee has been charged following an alleged drug trafficking attempt involving passenger luggage tags at a major airport, according to Royal Canadian Mounted Police.
Police said the investigation began on February 19 at Toronto Pearson International Airport, where officers were called after Canada Border Services Agency staff discovered cannabis in two checked bags belonging to separate passengers travelling to Germany.
Authorities said each suitcase contained 33 kilograms of cannabis.
The two German passengers, who did not know each other, were arrested but later released after denying ownership of the bags.
Investigators determined the luggage had not been checked in by the passengers. Instead, police allege an employee working in the baggage area attached luggage tags with the passengers’ names to the suitcases.
“Investigators found that an Air Canada employee working in the baggage room, had placed luggage tags bearing the unsuspecting passengers’ names onto the suitcases that contained the cannabis,” police said.
The accused, identified as 32 year old Atasha Weathley of Mississauga, has been charged with possession for the purpose of export and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.
“This investigation demonstrates the commitment of the RCMP and CBSA to protecting the integrity of Canada’s cross–border air transportation system. Individuals who attempt to exploit their position of trust within the aviation industry to facilitate illegal activity will be held accountable,” RCMP Supt. Dale Foote said.
Weathley has been released on bail and is due in court in Brampton on April 10.
