A joint operation between RCMP, the Canada Border Services Agency and Calgary Police Service has led to an arrest and seizure of drugs with an estimated street value of $7 million.

The investigation focused on cross-border importing of drugs by commercial transport vehicles. The Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) seized 38 kilograms of cocaine and 30 kilograms of heroin.

David Phanthikane, 42-years-old, a resident of Edmonton, was charged with Possession of a Controlled Substance for the Purpose of Trafficking and he is in Edmonton court today (Thursday).

Superintendent Sean Boser, the Officer in Charge of Federal Policing – Calgary, says, “This complex investigation, which spanned several months, is a great demonstration on the importance of collaboration between agencies. Investigators were able to prevent 68 kg of cocaine and heroin from impacting Alberta’s communities and potentially saving lives.”