The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Nova Scotia RCMP are investigating the seizure of more than $100,000 in counterfeit Canadian currency that was en route to Cape Breton. The fake banknotes, which originated from China, were intercepted in two separate shipments in Quebec and Ontario.
Initial Discovery at Mirabel International Airport
The first package was seized on January 9 at Mirabel International Airport in Quebec. According to officials, the package contained counterfeit Canadian banknotes featuring fake holographic stickers designed to resemble the security strips of genuine currency.
Second Seizure in Ontario
Following the initial discovery, CBSA officers intercepted a second shipment on January 27 at the international cargo processing facility in Mississauga, Ontario. This package contained approximately $30,000 in counterfeit bills, including $10, $20, $50, and $100 denominations.
Authorities confirmed that both shipments were sent from China and were destined for the same address in Glace Bay, Cape Breton. As a result, CBSA seized the fraudulent goods and referred the case to the Nova Scotia RCMP for further investigation.
Police Raid in Glace Bay
On February 11, the RCMP executed a search warrant at a residence in Glace Bay connected to the case. During the raid, officers confiscated:
- Holographic stickers used for counterfeiting
- Approximately $70,000 in fake currency
- Electronic devices
- A rifle
- Additional items related to the investigation
Police Warn Public to Check Banknotes
Authorities are urging Nova Scotians to carefully inspect cash transactions to avoid accepting counterfeit money.
“In Canada, knowingly using or possessing counterfeit currency is a criminal offense,” said Cpl. Mitch Thompson of the Nova Scotia RCMP Commercial Crime Section in a statement on Wednesday.
“If you unknowingly accept counterfeit cash as legal tender, you won’t be reimbursed—you’ll bear the financial loss. Understanding the security features of real banknotes will help you quickly spot fakes and protect yourself from fraud.”
How to Verify Banknotes
The Bank of Canada provides resources on its website to help the public identify genuine banknotes. Citizens are encouraged to familiarize themselves with these security features to safeguard against counterfeit currency.
