Suspicious device found at a Toronto airport has been disarmed and 2 people are in custody, authorities say.
A passenger at Terminal 1 of Toronto Pearson International Airport had a suspicious bag checked into the airport’s baggage claim last Monday, police announced Tuesday.
Officers then searched the bag and found what appeared to be heroin, police said.
The bag was then taken into the police station for further inspection.
Two people were arrested and have been charged with possession of an illegal drug, police said.
The bag was found in the airport’s security area, which is monitored 24 hours a day, and is about 90 metres from Terminal 2, which handles international travelers.
The bag was then taken into the police station for further inspection. Police said that the heroin was not yet confirmed.
Toronto police said the passenger had no prior criminal history.
The bag was discovered Tuesday morning but checked in at the gate a little more than an hour before.
A police spokesperson said “a thorough search of the bag was conducted, including the contents and exterior of the bag, and both passengers have been taken into custody.”
Two more people were then arrested, and charged with possession of an illegal drug.
Toronto police Const. David Hopkinson said none of the men’s names were released because they are being held under the provisions of the Youth Criminal Justice Act (YCJA) while investigations are conducted.
Two police officers are currently attending the airport to assist with the investigation.
“This type of operation is challenging, and it is important that we fully investigate this case to determine the facts,” Hopkinson said.
“I am confident that the actions of the officers and the Public Safety Act officers will bring about the arrest of the two people.”
Investigators are also reviewing the bag’s contents for other contraband.
Passengers in other terminals at the airport were asked to stop and wait while officers and a police dog took a closer look at the bag.
All passengers were then asked to go through metal