Pubdate: Sun, 27 Feb 2000
Source: Edmonton Sun (CN AB)
Copyright: 2000, Canoe Limited Partnership.
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Author: Tom Godfrey

RCMP WANT NUDE-CAM FOR TORONTO'S AIRPORT

TORONTO --  The RCMP are asking to test a controversial X-ray machine
that strips the clothes off travellers in their fight against drug
smuggling at Toronto's Pearson airport.

The hi-tech device allows Customs and airport cops to "see through"
the clothes of suspects to reveal if drugs or weapons are hidden
underneath. The Rapiscan Secure 1000 system, which is banned by Health
Canada, is so sensitive it can show a woman's nipples and an outline
of her underwear.

Some U.S. critics say ogling operators can violate a person's privacy.
But the Rapiscan, which uses X-rays to display concealed objects, has
been used since last summer at six U.S. airports and two in Britain.

"This machine will help make our job easier," said Staff-Sgt. Bill
Matheson, of the RCMP airport drug section. "It could curb the amount
of body packers we're experiencing."

Matheson said officers arrest at least one person each week smuggling
cocaine, heroin and Ecstasy taped to their bodies to avoid luggage
scans. He said they smuggle millions of dollars worth of drugs into
Canada each year at Pearson, but the Rapiscan would give "give the
smugglers something to worry about."

U.S. Customs spokesman Roger Maier said Rapiscan has resulted in many
drug seizures "and it has a great deterrent effect." But Canada
Customs spokesman Michel Proulx said since the body scanners don't
meet Health Canada guidelines, "Don't expect to see them in use here
anytime soon."

Proulx cited medical concerns for the ban. The Rapiscan is said to
expose a person to the same amount of X-rays as he would receive on
one trip through a metal detector. 
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