Arrest in Kelowna related to 115 kg of meth smuggled in pickle jars

A man in Kelowna was arrested as part of an operation to crackdown on drugs exported to Australia.

The RCMP arrested three people, one in Kelowna and two in Australia, and seized 115 kilograms of methamphetamine in Tsawwassen, according to a RCMP Federal Policing Pacific Region media release issued, March 26.

During container examination, Canadian Border Services Agents found the meth hidden in pickle jars destined for Melbourne, Australia in January.

On March 17, police arrested a 46-year-old foreign national in Kelowna. He was released pending further investigation into the drug smuggling case. He has been referred to the Canadian Border Services Agency.

Police also searched several locations in Abbotsford, Lower Nicola and Kelowna. Officers seized several cell phones and electronic devices. RCMP detachments in Kamloops and Merritt helped with the operation.

Across the Pacific Ocean, on the same day, police arrested two men in Australia, ages 40 and 63, and executed search warrants. Police seized $400,000 in cash, eight 1 kg silver bars, a luxury vehicle, jewellery and watches, electronic devices and drug paraphernalia.

The 40-year-old Australian has been charged with a count of attempting to import drugs, and a count of conspiracy to import drugs. The 63-year-old was charged with attempting to possess a commercial quantity of drugs.

“Drug trafficking knows no borders, and neither does our drive to confront it. This operation demonstrates that our partnerships are not only strong but growing stronger,” Acting Deputy Regional Commander, RCMP Federal Policing, Pacific Region Tim Arseneault said in the release.