RCMP officers in Windsor, Ontario, have ramped up border patrols along the Canada-U.S. boundary, covering nearly 800 kilometers of coastline in response to heightened security concerns. Since December, officers like Const. Ian Smith have spent 12-hour shifts monitoring waterways from Tobermory to Port Burwell, searching for illegal crossings and contraband smuggling.
The intensified security efforts align with Canada’s $1.3-billion border security initiative, announced after former U.S. President Donald Trump urged stricter controls on cross-border movement. Ontario Premier Doug Ford also introduced Operation Deterrence, deploying 200 OPP officers to bolster enforcement efforts.
While illegal activity has been minimal due to winter conditions, RCMP officers stress that their presence serves as a deterrent. Patrols now include aerial surveillance, with helicopters monitoring border regions to prevent unauthorized crossings. The last known smuggling attempt in the area occurred in September along the St. Clair River.
In another unprecedented move, RCMP officers are now inspecting commercial trucks crossing into the U.S. via the Ambassador Bridge. The operation is supported by specialized K9 units, including Philie, a German Shepherd trained to detect fentanyl—one of only a few dogs with this capability in Ontario.
Meanwhile, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) has reinforced outbound inspections as part of Operation Blizzard, a national initiative targeting the smuggling of fentanyl and other narcotics. The frequency of outbound searches remains undisclosed, but officials say they are selectively conducted based on risk indicators.
With increased patrols and enhanced coordination between federal and provincial agencies, Canada is reinforcing its border security while adapting to evolving cross-border travel dynamics.
Source: Swifteradio.com
