Between 2013 and 2017, 214 guns were seized at CBSA ports of entry in the Okanagan and Kootenay District.

“Our border services officers are the first people visitors will meet. They want to welcome travellers into Canada; however, they take protecting our borders and safeguarding Canadians very seriously. Our officers remain vigilant in the interdiction of illicit firearms to ensure these goods remain off the streets and out of local communities.” – Derek Collins, District Director, Okanagan and Kootenay District, Pacific Region, CBSA

The Canada Border Services Agency reminds U.S. travellers of Canadian firearm laws. Most undeclared firearms seized by the CBSA at land border ports of entry in British Columbia are personal firearms belonging to travellers arriving from the US who are unaware of the Canadian laws.

Firearms are high-risk commodities and their interdiction in an enforcement priority. Travellers who do not declare firearms upon arrival can face seizure, criminal prosecution and foreign nationals may be removed. All firearms must be declared at the first opportunity

•From 2013 to 2017, there have been 958 guns seized at CBSA ports of entry in the Pacific Region, in which 214 were seized in the Okanagan and Kootenay District.

•Travellers who do not declare firearms upon arrival can face arrest, seizure, monetary penalties, and/or criminal prosecution. Failing to declare firearms can also make visitors inadmissible to enter Canada.