Canadian Border Security (CBSA) Practice Exam

For which of the following offences can a Border Services Officer detain or arrest individuals?

1. Tax evasion

2. Impaired driving offences

3. Possession of illegal substances

4. Shoplifting in Canada

The correct answer is: Impaired driving offences

In the context of the powers granted to Border Services Officers (BSOs) under Canadian law, officers have the authority to detain or arrest individuals specifically for offences that relate to border security and specific criminal activities. Impaired driving offences fall within the jurisdiction of law enforcement to maintain safety and order, particularly as they pertain to individuals entering or leaving the country. This authority is especially important because impaired driving poses a significant risk not just on Canadian roads but also in terms of overall public safety and security, particularly at points of entry such as airports and border crossings. By entrusting BSOs with the power to address impaired driving, the legislation supports proactive measures to prevent dangerous individuals from entering the country while also ensuring that those who may have committed such offences are dealt with appropriately at the border. In contrast, other offences listed—like tax evasion and shoplifting—generally fall under the jurisdiction of different law enforcement agencies and are not typically within the purview of Border Services Officers. These crimes relate more to local law enforcement and fiscal regulations rather than immediate border security concerns, which is why BSOs would not have the direct authority to detain or arrest individuals for those activities. Possession of illegal substances may also have specific regulations; however, the