An Air Canada employee has been charged after allegedly attempting to traffic 66 kilograms of cannabis to Germany by using the luggage of two unsuspecting passengers, Canadian authorities confirmed.

According to a statement from the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), officers were called to Toronto Pearson International Airport on 19 February after Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) personnel discovered 33 kilograms of cannabis in each of two checked bags belonging to separate German travelers.

Both passengers denied any knowledge of the suitcases and were taken into custody for questioning.

Investigators determined that the passengers, who were travelling independently and did not know each other, had not checked the bags themselves.

The RCMP revealed that an Air Canada employee working in the airline’s baggage room had allegedly attached luggage tags bearing the names of the two passengers to suitcases containing the cannabis.

Following the discovery, the two German nationals were released, and the investigation continued. On 12 March, the RCMP arrested Atasha Weathley, a 32-year-old resident of Mississauga, charging her with possession for the purpose of export and conspiracy to commit an indictable offence.

She was subsequently held for bail and released under strict conditions.

“This investigation demonstrates the commitment of the RCMP and CBSA to protecting the integrity of Canada’s cross-border air transportation system,” said RCMP Superintendent Dale Foote.

“Individuals who attempt to exploit their position of trust within the aviation industry to facilitate illegal activity will be held accountable.”

Weathley is scheduled to appear in Brampton court on 10 April. Authorities say the case highlights ongoing efforts to safeguard air travel and prevent exploitation of airline systems for criminal purposes.

CTV News Toronto has reached out to Air Canada for comment on the matter.