Alberta Launches New U.S. Border Security Initiative with Drones
Alberta’s new border security plan includes sheriffs, drones, and dogs to enhance safety along the U.S. border amid rising tensions.
Alberta, Canada, U.S. Border, Border Security, Danielle Smith, Drones, Drug Patrol
Alberta: So, Alberta just rolled out a new plan to boost security at its border with the U.S. They’re really stepping up their game.
Premier Danielle Smith announced that they’re putting $29 million into this new Interdiction Patrol Team. It’ll have 51 officers, some support staff, and even drug-sniffing dogs and drones. Pretty cool, right?
This team is all about stopping illegal crossings and keeping drugs and guns from coming over the border. They’re setting up a border zone that’s at least two kilometers deep. If they catch anyone trying to cross illegally, the sheriffs can arrest them without a warrant.
Smith mentioned that they want to work closely with federal law enforcement to keep the border secure. She’s all about making sure criminals can’t find a safe spot to operate between the two countries.
The goal is to have this team up and running by early 2025. This announcement comes at a time when there’s talk of tariffs on Canadian goods from the U.S. administration.
President-elect Trump has threatened to impose hefty tariffs unless Canada and Mexico tackle what he calls an “invasion” of drugs and illegal immigrants. So, Alberta is trying to get ahead of that.
Prime Minister Trudeau even met with the premiers to discuss how to handle relations with the U.S. as Trump gets ready to take office again.
While the flow of illegal stuff from Canada is way less than what comes from Mexico, Trump is still worried about it. Alberta’s Public Safety Minister, Mike Ellis, said they’re on the same page with the RCMP and border services about patrolling the border.
They’re also going to check commercial vehicles on major highways and near border points. Ellis made it clear they won’t just sit back and wait for a solution.
Smith has been chatting with U.S. officials about avoiding those tariffs, especially on oil and gas. She pointed out that if those tariffs hit, it’ll just mean higher prices for Americans.
She also talked about her discussions with Kristi Noem, Trump’s pick for homeland security. They’re focusing on fentanyl and crime across the border, and Smith wants to make sure they’re working with Montana to secure that area.
In the end, she believes that diplomacy is key to avoiding those tariffs and wants to see a united front from all provinces on border security.