Government Expands Efforts to Combat Illegal Cross-Border Activity Along Alberta-Montana Border
Alberta expands border security with patrol teams, inspection stations, and stricter enforcement to combat crime
EDMONTON – Alberta’s government is moving swiftly to enhance border security with the deployment of its Interdiction Patrol Team (IPT) and additional measures to stop illegal activity along the Alberta-Montana border.
Since announcing a $29-million investment in December 2024, Alberta has established the IPT within the Alberta Sheriffs, tasked with cracking down on drug trafficking, human smuggling, and illegal border crossings. The first cohort of 20 officers is now patrolling key border areas, with hiring ongoing to fill all 51 positions. The IPT is working closely with the RCMP and Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) to enhance enforcement between official ports of entry.
Expanding Border Security Measures
Alberta is bolstering border enforcement with advanced technology and new infrastructure, including:
🔹 Drones and night-vision optics for enhanced surveillance.
🔹 Patrol canines trained to detect drugs and firearms.
🔹 Three new vehicle inspection stations, pending Budget 2025 approval, located at:
- Highway 1 (Dunmore)
- Highway 3 (Burmis)
- Highway 4 (Coutts)
“Alberta is committed to securing our southern border and stopping the dangerous criminal activities that put lives at risk,” said Premier Danielle Smith. “Our new Interdiction Patrol Team, enhanced highway monitoring, and vehicle inspection stations will help keep Albertans safe and protect our economy.”
Crackdown on Drug Trafficking and Human Smuggling
Since its launch, the IPT has conducted over 3,300 stops and has already:
✅ Assisted in four unauthorized border crossings
✅ Executed 18 warrants
✅ Conducted two Judicial Interim Release hearings
✅ Made three arrests related to cocaine trafficking
Minister of Public Safety Mike Ellis emphasized Alberta’s zero-tolerance stance on trafficking, stating, “Criminals bringing deadly fentanyl and other drugs across our border will be caught and prosecuted.”
Strengthening Legal Authority and Highway Monitoring
Alberta has also expanded the Critical Infrastructure Defence Regulation, designating a two-kilometre border zone as essential infrastructure. This change gives law enforcement greater authority to arrest individuals trespassing or interfering with border security operations.
Additionally, highway maintenance crews contracted by Volker Stevin will be trained to identify and report suspicious activity along 600 km of southern Alberta highways, adding an extra layer of border surveillance.
“Enhancing border security isn’t just about law enforcement—it’s about using every tool at our disposal,” said Minister of Transportation Devin Dreeshen.
A Coordinated Effort to Protect Alberta’s Border
As cooperation increases with U.S. authorities, Alberta Sheriffs Chief Bob Andrews emphasized the critical role of the IPT in keeping the border secure. “This initiative strengthens our ability to work alongside the RCMP, CBSA, and our U.S. counterparts to prevent cross-border crime.”
Alberta remains committed to building a safer, more secure border while ensuring efficient trade and travel for law-abiding businesses and residents.
