CUSTOMS STAFF: NEW RULE HURTS DRUG WAR

Customs officers say their job is being made more difficult by a Canada
Customs decision to stop seizing commercial aircraft found to be carrying
large amounts of smuggled drugs.

"They (airlines) should have to pay a fine at least," John King, of the
Customs Excise Union, said yesterday. "There's no deterrent to stop people
from smuggling drugs on flights," and no incentive for airlines to tighten
security if they don't face penalties.

In a memo from senior brass last month, Customs workers were advised
against seizing planes with drugs hidden in the aircraft body, avionics and
baggage holds.

"This is not fair," King said, noting all other vehicles found crossing the
border with illegal drugs are seized.

Canada Customs spokesman Michel Cleroux said while the seizure law is still
on the books, "it's our preference to work with the airlines."

"It's more productive to work with airlines and their staff to combat drug
smuggling," Cleroux said yesterday.

Two commercial jets were seized at Pearson in 1989 and one in 1991. The
companies involved had to pay from $500,000 to $2.6 million in sureties to
have them returned.

U.S. Customs officials said yesterday they still seize commercial planes
found to be carrying smuggled drugs.

Checked-by: Pat Dolan