APRIL 9, 2021 – Despite the COVID-19 pandemic, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is committed to keeping illegal and smuggled firearms from reaching our communities.
The CBSA announced today the seizure of 26 firearms and prohibited devices at the Cornwall port of entry.
On March 28, 2021, Christopher Jacobs, a Quebec resident, arrived at the Cornwall port of entry and was referred for a secondary examination. During the examination, officers discovered:
- 1 assault rifle
- 17 prohibited handguns
- 8 restricted handguns
- 1 suppressor
- 44 magazines
- 2 fast loaders and one loader
He is scheduled to appear in court in Cornwall on April 12, 2021, to face charges on the following counts:
- S. 12 Customs Act – one count of non report
- S. 153(a) Customs Act – one count of making false statements
- S. 159 Customs Act – one count of smuggling
- S.91(1) Criminal Code of Canada – 26 counts of unauthorized possession of a firearm
- S.104(1)(a) Criminal Code of Canada – 26 counts of importing firearms
The investigation is ongoing.
Quotes
“This demonstrates the vigilance and commitment of the CBSA to ensuring that our borders are not used for illegal activity. I am proud of the excellent work by our officers who continue to protect Canadian communities from the impacts of gun smuggling.”
-Stephanie Chenier, Acting Regional Director General, CBSA
Quick facts
· On May 1, 2020, the Government of Canada introduced an immediate prohibition of more than 1,500 assault-style firearms. Affected firearms cannot be legally used, sold or imported into Canada.
· When an individual declares a prohibited firearm at the border, they will be offered the option to export or abandon it; if they fail to declare, the firearm may be seized and ultimately destroyed.
· Failing to declare firearms can result in significant border delays, monetary penalties, criminal charges, loss of the undeclared guns, and the risk of visitors being banned from returning to Canada.