Pubdate: Wed, 12 Jul 2000
Source: Calgary Sun, The (CN AB)
Copyright: 2000 The Calgary Sun
Contact:  2615 12 Street N.E., Calgary, Alberta T2E 7W9
Fax: (403) 250-4180
Website: http://www.canoe.ca/CalgarySun/
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Author: Peter Smith

KHAT USE SOARS

Another Airport Bust Of African Hallucinogen

The popularity of the African hallucinogen khat is taking off, Canada 
Customs officials said following a seizure of the drug at Calgary 
International Airport.

Customs officers stopped a passenger who arrived off an airliner from 
England yesterday, and discovered 6.4 kg of the drug in two suitcases.

"There have been about 60 seizures like this at Pearson International in 
Toronto, and this could be just the tip of the iceberg here," said Canada 
Customs spokesman Gordon Luchia, adding yesterday's seizure had an 
estimated street value of $1,300.

Khat is a plant cultivated in Kenya, Ethiopia, Yemen and Somalia.

"When the leaves are ingested, a euphoric effect is felt, ranging from 
increased alertness and happiness to insomnia, anorexia and 
hallucinations," said Luchia.

"Consumption of large quantities can cause slurred speech, staggering, an 
inability to concentrate and can provoke outrage."

Luchia said the usual smuggling route for the drug, which is illegal in 
Canada, is through the British Isles.

"It's moved from Africa into England, where it isn't illegal, and from 
there into Canada," he said.

Hussein Ahmed Idan, of Calgary, was charged by the RCMP with possession of 
a controlled substance for the purposes of trafficking.

He's slated to appear in provincial court tomorrow.
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