NIAGARA FALLS, ON, Sept. 4, 2026 /CNW/ -- Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officers at land ports of entry across the Southern Ontario Region seized illicit tobacco and nicotine products valued at more than $13.8 million during the month of August. The majority of the seizures involved significant quantities in commercial shipments from the United States.

These seizures keep illegal tobacco and nicotine products off the Canadian market and limit revenue for organized crime. Revenue generated from the illicit tobacco trade is often used to support and expand other criminal activities in Canada and abroad.

The CBSA, working closely with law enforcement partners, is committed to disrupting these networks by intercepting contraband at the border and preventing criminal organizations from profiting from illegal trade. Examples of notable seizures across the region included:

• August 20: Border services officers at the Blue Water Bridge seized 14,964 kg of loose-leaf tobacco, valued at $2,765,969.
• August 17: At the Ambassador Bridge, CBSA officers seized 1,781,000 cigarettes, valued at $333,189.
• August 14: At the Blue Water Bridge, border services officers seized 15,222 kg of loose-leaf tobacco, valued at $2,809,921.
• August 11: Border services officers at the Blue Water Bridge seized 2,796 kg of nicotine pouches, valued at $2,983,499.
• August 6: At the Peace Bridge, CBSA officers seized 3,000 kg of waterpipe tobacco, valued at $299,820.
• August 2: At the Queenston Bridge, border services officers seized 7,658 kg of nicotine and tobacco products, valued at $2,704,524.

Since January 1, 2026, CBSA officers in the Southern Ontario Region have seized more than $52.2 million in tobacco and nicotine products.

The CBSA continues to combat the illegal cross-border movement of contraband tobacco at the border through intelligence, specialized detection equipment and the expertise of frontline officers.

Quotes

"Seizing more than $13.8 million in tobacco and nicotine products shows the strength of Canada's border enforcement. These actions help protect Canadians and ensure criminal organizations cannot take advantage of our borders for financial gain."

- The Honourable Gary Anandasangaree, Minister of Public Safety

"These results reflect the skill, experience and determination of CBSA's frontline officers across Southern Ontario. Guided by intelligence and supported by tools such as handheld devices, X-ray technology and detector dogs, our officers use their specialized training and expertise to identify contraband and other prohibited or restricted goods. Their knowledge and vigilance are critical to our enforcement efforts."

- Michael Prosia, Regional Director General, Southern Ontario Region, Canada Border Services Agency

Quick facts

• For the latest enforcement statistics, visit Canada Border Services Agency seizures.
• Canada is investing $1.3 billion to bolster security at the border and strengthen the immigration system, all while keeping Canadians safe. Information on the Border Plan is available here: The Government of Canada's Border Plan: significant investments to strengthen border security and our immigration system.
• If you have information about suspicious cross-border activity, please contact the CBSA Border Watch Line at 1-888-502-9060.

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SOURCE Canada Border Services Agency