Smuggling on Lake Ontario: The Dark Side of Boat Theft

A Toronto Marine Police boat is patrolling the harbor beneath a clear blue sky, while a Canadian goose swims close by.

Lake Ontario, the easternmost of the Great Lakes, serves as a vital commercial and recreational waterway between Canada and the United States. However, beneath its serene surface lies a troubling issue: the use of stolen boats to smuggle illicit drugs across the border.

The Modus Operandi

Criminals exploit the vast expanse of Lake Ontario, utilizing stolen vessels to transport narcotics between Toronto and various U.S. ports. The stolen boats offer anonymity and flexibility, allowing smugglers to evade traditional land-based border controls.

Notable Incidents

In January 2022, a collaborative operation between the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) led to the interception of a boat carrying over 200 kilograms of suspected cannabis. The investigation traced the vessel's movements, culminating in significant drug seizures and the arrest of two Toronto residents.

Similarly, in December 2021, authorities uncovered a smuggling attempt involving 59 illegal firearms transported via boat across the St. Lawrence River near Cornwall, Ontario. The firearms were believed to be destined for criminal networks within Canada.

Theft of Vessels: A Gateway to Smuggling

The demand for boats suitable for smuggling has led to an increase in their theft. In September 2024, the Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) reported the theft of three boats and trailers from a business in Lake of Bays. The stolen vessels, valued at over $75,000, were likely intended for illicit activities, including drug trafficking.

Historical Context

The use of boats for smuggling on Lake Ontario is not a new phenomenon. During the Prohibition era, figures like Rocco Perri and Ben Kerr orchestrated extensive smuggling operations, transporting alcohol between Canada and the U.S. Their activities highlight the long-standing challenges of policing this expansive waterway.

Law Enforcement Challenges

The vastness of Lake Ontario, combined with its heavy recreational use, poses significant challenges for law enforcement agencies. Detecting and intercepting smuggling operations require extensive resources and coordination between Canadian and U.S. authorities.

Community Vigilance

Residents and businesses along the Lake Ontario shoreline play a crucial role in combating smuggling. Reporting suspicious activities, such as unfamiliar boats operating at odd hours or unusual gatherings near the waterfront, can aid authorities in their investigations.

Conclusion

The use of stolen boats for drug smuggling across Lake Ontario underscores the need for heightened vigilance and collaboration among law enforcement, communities, and border security agencies. Addressing this issue requires a multifaceted approach, combining historical insights with modern strategies to safeguard the integrity of this vital waterway.

For more information on reporting suspicious activities, contact the CBSA Border Watch Toll-free Line at 1-888-502-9060.