Pubdate: Fri, 13 May 2005
Source: Peace Arch News (CN BC)
Copyright: 2005 Peace Arch News
Contact:  http://www.peacearchnews.com/
Details: http://www.mapinc.org/media/1333
Author: Steven Addison

BORDER CUSTOMS OFFICER RELIEVED OF DUTIES

Altaf Merali, the South Surrey customs officer who allegedly tried to 
smuggle 227 pounds of pot into the United States, has been "relieved of his 
duties" with Canada Border Services Agency.

However, Canada customs won't confirm if the accused dope smuggler is still 
on the payroll, and there's a chance he could get his job back.

"He's been relieved of duties pending the results of our investigation," 
CSBA's Paula Shore said.

"The point we have to remember is he's innocent until proven guilty."

Merali, 37, has been freed on $50,000 bail from a U.S. jail.

The bond, posted by his mother, allows him to leave Washington State and 
return to his home in Surrey.

The Morgan Creek resident was arrested May 3 after the van he was driving 
was picked randomly for search by U.S. border officials.

According to court documents, Merali told agents he had been recruited by a 
neighbour who warned that Merali's family could be in danger if he didn't 
transport the bud.

Shore said Canada's privacy laws don't allow her to speak specifically 
about employees, which is why she won't say if he's still being paid.

CSBA is conducting its own investigation of the incident, independent of 
the legal proceedings.

His next court appearance is Wednesday.

If found guilty in U.S. court, Merali faces five to 40 years in jail, and a 
$2 million fine.
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