Air Canada suspends two ground staff over suspected drug smuggling

Air Canada has placed two ground-handling employees on suspension following their arrest at Montreal-Trudeau Airport in connection with a suspected drug smuggling operation. Both workers were later released from custody.

According to Canada's federal police, the RCMP, the pair are suspected of involvement in a scheme in which baggage was moved into secure airport areas to facilitate the import of cocaine and export of cannabis.

The investigation reportedly began in May, after 62.5 kilograms of cocaine were found packed in backpacks aboard a flight arriving from Punta Cana. Investigators subsequently seized 56 kilograms of cannabis as the probe widened.

Authorities have indicated that further arrests are possible as the investigation continues. No additional details on charges against the two suspended employees have been disclosed.