CBSA officer charged in alleged multi-million dollar cross-border drug smuggling operation, RCMP says

A Canada Border Services Agency officer has been charged after allegedly allowing a transport truck carrying millions of dollars worth of opium, cannabis and tobacco to cross into Ontario’s Niagara Region, the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said Friday(March 20). Authorities also took the truck driver into custody at the same time.

According to CTV News website,the Royal Canadian Mounted Police said the officer who was stationed at the Queenston-Lewiston port of entry in Niagara-on-the-Lake, was initially arrested in January after allegedly failing to follow Canada Border Services Agency protocols and allowing a truck carrying contraband into Canada.

The Royal Canadian Mounted Police said that on March 6, charges were laid against CBSA officer Daniel Notarianni and truck driver Abhishek Abhishek.


The Royal Canadian Mounted Police is Canada’s national police force, responsible for enforcing federal laws and providing policing services across provinces, territories and municipalities. It also plays a key role in border security, organized crime investigations and national security operations.

According to CTV News website, they include conspiracy to import a Schedule 1 substance, trafficking and importation of a controlled substance, possession for the purpose of trafficking, distribution of a Schedule 1 substance, and transportation and possession of tobacco for the purpose of sale.

Police said Daniel Notarianni is scheduled to appear in court in Welland, Ontario, on March 23, 2026. Abhishek Abhishek is set to appear on April 9, 2026.

Superintendent Dale Foote said, “This investigation highlights the strength of the partnership between the RCMP and the CBSA in maintaining a secure border. When the CBSA brought this information forward, our members were able to respond quickly and carry out a careful, impartial investigation."