Faced with a resurgence in fentanyl trafficking and organised crime, Canada is rolling out a strengthened strategy to secure its borders and protect its citizens. The government has decided to modernise its security measures in response to the increase in synthetic drugs such as fentanyl, which are crossing borders via increasingly sophisticated networks. Today, combating these threats requires advanced technological resources and increased international cooperation.

In December 2024, the Canadian government launched a £1.3 billion border plan to modernise border security. This programme includes the acquisition of state-of-the-art surveillance equipment (helicopters, drones, mobile towers) and the strengthening of field teams. To lead this fight, a national official, nicknamed the ‘fentanyl czar’, was appointed in early 2025. This coordinator oversees all federal initiatives against fentanyl and organised crime, ensuring a consistent approach among the various public security actors.

 

Targeting Organised Crime to Cut off Networks

Organised crime refers to structured criminal networks involved in illegal activities such as drug trafficking, arms trafficking, money laundering and human trafficking. These groups often operate internationally, with cross-border ramifications. To better neutralise them, Canada recently added several of these foreign criminal organisations to the Criminal Code's list of terrorist entities. This means that any collaboration with these groups, their financing or logistical support is now subject to severe prosecution, and their assets can be frozen by the authorities.

In addition, a joint Canadian-American task force has been established. This task force brings together experts from both countries (police, customs officers, intelligence specialists) who work together to track financial flows, dismantle fentanyl trafficking networks, and improve the exchange of real-time information on transnational criminal organisations.

 

Targeted Operations and Intelligence Enhancement

The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) also conducts targeted operations such as Operation Blizzard, which in the spring of 2025 seized more than 173 kg of fentanyl and nearly six tonnes of other narcotics in one month by targeting postal, air and maritime flows.

Canada has also invested $200 million to strengthen intelligence and analysis capabilities, facilitating enhanced collaboration between national agencies and international partners. The goal is to better anticipate the evolution of criminal networks and act more effectively against the scourge of fentanyl and organised crime.

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