RCMP arrest Cuban national after Peace Bridge border crossing attempt

Brent Jones
April 3, 2025 at 2:57 PM

A Cuban national was arrested in mid-March after attempting to enter Canada by running across the International Railway Bridge in Fort Erie.

A Cuban national attempted to enter Fort Erie by running across the International Railway Bridge. Credit: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

Members of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) Niagara-on-the-Lake Border Integrity Unit, with assistance from Ontario Provincial Police (OPP) as part of Ontario’s Operation Deterrence, located and arrested the individual under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act.

The person was transported to the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) at the Peace Bridge. Following an assessment, the individual was deemed ineligible to enter Canada and was returned to the United States the same day.

The Niagara-on-the-Lake Border Integrity Unit maintains a continuous presence at the railway bridge.

Officers have recently made multiple arrests of individuals attempting to cross into Canada illegally at that location, according to a news release issued Thursday. All have been returned to the U.S.

RCMP officers conduct patrols along the border by land, water and air to prevent and detect cross-border criminal activity.

“The RCMP continues to see positive operational impact from new investments in law enforcement between ports of entry and collaborative efforts with CN Police, OPP and CBSA in maintaining the security and integrity of Canadian borders,” said Sergeant Lepa Jankovic of the RCMP Border Integrity Unit in the release.