Raj Kumar Mehmi, a 60-year-old truck driver from Surrey, British Columbia, faces a Canada-wide arrest warrant for drug trafficking, with a 15-year prison sentence after smuggling 80 kg of cocaine. He fled to India after being found guilty and sentenced in absentia. The RCMP seeks an Interpol Red Notice for his arrest.
Initially arrested in 2017 for the cocaine discovery, valued at $3.2 million, Mehmi faced charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act. Despite a guilty verdict in 2022, he absconded before his January 2023 sentencing, resulting in sentencing in absentia in November 2023.
The RCMP reported his departure to India after boarding a flight from Vancouver, highlighting his ability to obtain a new passport legally between arrest and conviction. Authorities urge individuals to avoid contact and notify local police if they encounter Mehmi, described as 6 feet tall, weighing 200 pounds.
Key Points:
1. A nationwide arrest warrant has been issued for Raj Kumar Mehmi, a 60-year-old truck driver from Surrey, British Columbia, who fled to India after being sentenced to 15 years in prison for drug trafficking.
2. Mehmi was convicted in November for smuggling 80 kg of cocaine through the Canada-US Pacific Highway border crossing.
3. The Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) seeks an Interpol Red Notice, urging law enforcement worldwide to locate and provisionally arrest Mehmi for extradition or legal action.
4. Initially arrested in 2017 after 80 bricks of cocaine were found in his truck, Mehmi faced charges under the Controlled Drugs and Substances Act (CDSA).
5. Despite being found guilty in September 2022, Mehmi fled to India from Vancouver in October 2022, skipping his sentencing hearing.
6. Sentenced in absentia in November 2023, he received a 15-year prison term for drug importation and six years for drug possession.
7. Mehmi's Canadian passport was confiscated upon arrest, but due to the time lapse before conviction, he obtained another legal passport to facilitate his escape.
8. Described as 6 feet tall and weighing 200 pounds, authorities advise against approaching Mehmi and urge individuals to contact local law enforcement if seen.
9. Mehmi's evasion has prompted an international search effort, including the request for an Interpol Red Notice to aid in locating and apprehending him.
10. The case underscores challenges in monitoring individuals awaiting trial or sentencing, as Mehmi's escape highlights gaps in the system that allowed for passport acquisition and fleeing the country.
(With Agency Inputs)
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