Two women were detained at Toronto Airport with more than $1,000,000 in their suitcases
During the search, the passengers were found in possession of 982,000 Canadian Dollars and 186,000 Euros. They failed to submit a passenger customs declaration, despite being obligated to do so.
Published on: June 09, 2025 at 16:47 | By The Daily Boreal Editorial Team
Two women were detained at Toronto Pearson International Airport after customs officials discovered more than $1,000,000 in undeclared cash concealed within their luggage. The incident occurred during a routine screening by the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), which flagged anomalies in the women's suitcases during a scan.
According to officials, the travelers had just arrived from an international flight when border agents grew suspicious of their behavior and referred them for secondary inspection. Upon opening the luggage, CBSA officers uncovered multiple envelopes and hidden compartments filled with large quantities of Canadian Dollars and Euros.
The final tally included 982,000 Canadian Dollars and 186,000 Euros. Authorities noted that while carrying large sums of money is not illegal, failure to declare amounts exceeding $10,000 CAD is a serious offense under Canadian law. Neither woman had submitted a customs declaration for the cash.
Investigators believe the women may have been acting as couriers for an international money-laundering operation. Both were detained at the scene and later transferred to the custody of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) for further questioning and investigation.
The CBSA stated that its officers are trained to detect concealment methods and behavior consistent with smuggling operations. They praised the officers involved for their diligence and adherence to protocol, noting that the seizure likely prevented the funds from being used for criminal activity.
Sources close to the investigation revealed that the women offered inconsistent statements about their travel purpose and the contents of their bags. One of them reportedly claimed the money was for a business deal, but was unable to provide documentation or supporting evidence.
Airport security footage is being reviewed to determine whether the women had contact with other individuals upon arrival. Authorities are also collaborating with financial intelligence units to trace the origin of the funds and any associated criminal networks.
A spokesperson for the RCMP confirmed that charges have not yet been filed but emphasized that the case remains under active investigation. They added that if criminal intent is established, the women could face charges related to money laundering, smuggling, and customs violations.
This incident highlights the ongoing challenges faced by border enforcement agencies in identifying and intercepting illicit financial flows. Experts say Canada’s airports are a frequent target for such activity due to their high volume of international traffic and relatively open travel policies.
Travelers are reminded that Canadian law requires the declaration of any amount of cash or monetary instruments totaling over $10,000 when entering or leaving the country. Failure to do so can result in seizure, fines, or prosecution.
The CBSA encourages travelers to consult its guidelines before international travel and to be honest in all disclosures at customs. The agency maintains that transparency helps safeguard Canada's borders and strengthens the country’s ability to combat financial crime.