Saturday, September 04, 2010
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An air cargo package containing 73 kilograms of khat has been uncovered at Calgary International Airport.
The shipment of khat — a plant that produces a mild cocaine-type euphoria — was declared as fresh flowers, according to a Canada Border Services Agency news release.
The shipment originated in Kenya.
It's the 19th khat seizure and the second largest in Alberta this year.
The CBSA said Canada, including Alberta, has seen an increase in khat imports over the past five years.
Khat is generally linked to east African countries like Somalia, Yemen and Ethiopia. It is usually chewed to release the desired ingredients, but it's also available in dried form to smoke or to be added to tea or food.
No arrests have been made. The investigation continues.
Source: CBC