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Illicit Drugs
Heroin
Overview of Criminal Activity
Heroin is a highly addictive drug that, in Canada, is used by between 25,000 to 50,000 addicts that reside mainly within urban centres, particularly Vancouver,Toronto and Montreal. It is estimated that between one or two tonnes of heroin is required annually to supply this illicit market. Over the last ten years, heroin destined for the Canadian market has traditionally originated in Southeast Asia (Golden Triangle). However, increasing quantities of heroin from both Southwest Asia (Golden Crescent) and South America are being encountered by law enforcement.
Southeast Asian traffickers are involved in the movement of heroin into Canada.As well, there are some Southwest Asian crime groups involved in smuggling heroin to Canada. Heroin enters Canada primarily through marine and air ports concealed either within commercial cargo or carried by individuals within their baggage or on their person.
