The RCMP Integrated Border Enforcement Team (IBET) located in Altona and Boissevain is encouraging the public to report any suspect activity in rural airstrips in Manitoba.
The RCMP Airport Watch Program was initiated to combat the illegal transportation of contraband via air. The program is aimed at encouraging the public to provide information to either initiate or further investigations with a focus on illegal activity in Canadian airspace and unregulated airstrips.
The RCMP has joined forces with Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and other government agencies to combat the smuggling of narcotics and other contraband. Information obtained through the Airport Watch Program is shared with agencies that can most effectively act on that information.
At times, aircrafts afford a covert method for transporting contraband across borders and throughout the province. Pilots, airport managers and employees, and members of the general public can assist by knowing what to look for, and by acting as the “eyes and ears” of the Airport Watch Program.
Some indicators of suspicious activity include:
• Aircrafts landing at secluded airstrips after normal operating hours
• Aircrafts landing, flying, or taking off without proper lighting
• Aircrafts that have been modified to carry extra weight or hold extra fuel
• Aircrafts that have altered or covered registration numbers (“CF” and “CG” indicate Canadian while “N” indicated US)
• Windows covered with tape or paper
• Items being dropped from a moving aircraft
• Holes in perimeter fencing
If you notice suspicious behaviour, take note of details, such as:
• Time, date, and location of occurrence (GPS coordinates if possible)
• The nature of the activities you observed
• Description of individuals, vehicles, or aircraft such as the registration number, high wing or low wing, single or twin engine
• Last known direction of travel
• Altitude
Anyone who suspects the smuggling of contraband or illegal activity in rural Manitoba is encouraged to contact toll free: 1-888-MAN-IBET (626-4238) or your local police agency.
