THUNDER BAY – The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) today announced the recent seizure of two weapons at the Pigeon River port of entry.
On August 8, 2017, two individuals seeking entry to Canada were referred for secondary examination.
During examination of the vehicle, border services officers found a list of things to pack, which included an item “pistol/shells.” Upon questioning, the driver admitted to having a concealed loaded handgun in the camper.
Border services officers located the handgun, with one round in the chamber, and also found a stun gun. They seized the weapons and made an arrest.
Edward Francis Candela, 73, of Yankeetown, Florida is charged with failing to report goods, evading compliance, possession of illegally imported goods and smuggling under subsection 12(1), paragraph 153(c), and sections 155 and 159 of the Customs Act.
A $1,000 penalty was issued for the firearm and a $500 penalty issued for the stun gun.
Candela was released on a recognizance for a first court appearance on the charges in Thunder Bay on September 26, 2017.
“This seizure is an important reminder for travellers to leave firearms at home when visiting Canada. If you bring firearms with you, be sure to declare them upon entry to Canada. I am proud of how diligently our officers work to fulfill the important role they play in keeping our communities safe,” says An Nguyen, Chief of Operations, Pigeon River port of entry.
Quick Facts
- Anyone importing firearms and weapons into Canada must declare them and meet all licensing and registration requirements under the Firearms Act.
- Failure to declare goods, including firearms and weapons, and other Customs Act contraventions may lead to prosecution in a court of law.
- Anyone with information about suspicious cross-border activity is encouraged to call the CBSA Border Watch toll-free line at 1-888-502-9060.
Associated Links
Import and Export a Firearm or Weapon into Canada
For more information, visit the CBSA website at www.cbsa.gc.ca or contact the Border Information Service at 1‑800‑461-9999.
