Large cache of marijuana found on U.S. side of Niagara River

Border patrol agents have seized more than $300,000 in marijuana from a trail along the American side of the Niagara River.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection was called to Whirlpool State Park June 17 after a resident walking along a trail near the lower Niagara Gorge saw a man dragging what appeared to be multiple plastic-wrapped packages. When he realized he’d been spotted, the man fled the area, abandoning the packages.

The witness called New York State Police, who subsequently contacted the border patrol due to the proximity to the Canadian border. Agents discovered 10 packages of marijuana which weighed 53 kilograms and was valued at more than $300,000.

Brady Waikel, patrol agent in charge with the Niagara Falls Border Patrol Station, said the seizure demonstrates the importance of the community to be vigilant to suspicious behaviour near the border.

“With (the community’s) help, our agents and local area partners continue to prevent the illegal smuggling of narcotics, people, weapons, and other contraband into the United States.”

Agents and police, aided by a helicopter, searched the area for suspects and additional contraband.