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.