Overview
- A CTV News W5 investigation identified a pattern in which at least 17 travellers who flew from Canada were later detained abroad after drugs were found in suitcases bearing their baggage tags.
- The Royal Canadian Mounted Police have arrested six baggage and ramp workers at Toronto Pearson in connection with cases tied to the scheme.
- Reportedly, corrupt ground staff can remove a passenger’s tag and attach it to a drug‑filled bag in seconds inside poorly covered cargo or handling areas.
- Some intercepted drug suitcases contained hidden Apple AirTags or other trackers that allowed criminals to monitor location and retrieve swapped bags before they reached carousels.
- Airport authorities say they are aware of the investigation, probes are ongoing, and security experts advise travellers to photograph tags and bags at check‑in, keep receipts, use unique visual identifiers and consider personal trackers or carry‑on to help prove innocence.