Concealed opium found in tombstone shipped from Iran to Vancouver

A 550-kilo tombstone shipped to Vancouver International Airport contained a cavity which was used to smuggle a record amount of opium.

COQUITLAM, B.C. – A tombstone shipped from Iran contained 56.8 kilos of opium – the largest haul ever in B.C. An air cargo delivery on Jan. 6 of a 550 kilo tombstone off-loaded at Vancouver International Airport was inspected by the Canada Border Services Agency and authorities discovered a cavity containing the narcotic. “While conducting a secondary examination on the tombstone, CBSA officers discovered a cavity inside containing 56.8 kg of opium. Officers seized the illicit drug,” RCMP Staff-Sgt. Dave Goddard said. RCMP made a controlled delivery of the tombstone to a home in the 700-block of Gauthier Avenue in Coquitlam. They arrested a 39-year-old woman at the home and later her 48-year-old husband surrendered to police. Police also arrested two North Vancouver brothers in connection with the opium-containing tombstone. “This opium seizure was unprecedented because of the total quantity of the drug seized here in Canada. The concern for public safety, due to an array of harmful effects to those who consume the substance, which is very similar to the effects of heroin, is very concerning. We will continue to work with CBSA to investigate and arrest those who attempt to import illegal substances into our country,” said Goddard.