On January 28, 2016, information came forward to the RCMP Halifax Stanfield International Airport Detachment regarding possible theft from luggage on an aircraft prior to takeoff.

During the course of the investigation, RCMP officers worked closely with Halifax International Airport Authority Security to identify cargo handling service employees who were allegedly searching through checked luggage after the bags had been loaded onto an aircraft during the evening of January 27, 2016.

On February 1, 2016, two 23-year-old men from Stewiacke and Dutch Settlement and one 19-year-old man from Halifax, were arrested without incident. All three individuals are facing theft charges.  The 23-year-old man from Stewiacke is also facing a charge of Possession of Stolen Property.  The accused were released on a Promise to Appear and are scheduled to appear at Dartmouth Provincial Court on March 15, 2016 at 9:30 a.m.

“Theft from luggage on any aircraft is very concerning,” says Cpl. Andrew Joyce. “We encourage travellers to always lock their luggage but be sure the key is easily accessible in the event you are asked to open your suitcase for security reasons.”

The investigation has been handed over to the Integrated General Investigation Section of the Criminal Investigation Division. Further arrests and charges are anticipated.

Source: Media Release