MONTREAL — Two Air Canada employees have been arrested as part of an ongoing RCMP investigation into an alleged drug trafficking operation at Montréal-Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport.

The two suspects, who worked in Air Canada ground operations, are accused of participating in a conspiracy to move luggage through secure areas of the airport to facilitate the importation of cocaine and exportation of cannabis. The allegations have not been proven in court.

The investigation began in May after the Canada Border Services Agency intercepted 62.5 kilograms of cocaine concealed in backpacks on a flight arriving from Punta Cana, Dominican Republic.

Investigators subsequently seized another 56 kilograms of cannabis during the probe. On Wednesday, RCMP officers executed search warrants at two residences and a vehicle in the Greater Montreal area, as well as at the employees' work base in Dorval.

The two employees were arrested for questioning and released pending further proceedings. RCMP said analysis of the evidence could result in additional arrests and charges.

Air Canada confirmed that the employees have been suspended and said the airline is cooperating fully with investigators.

The investigation puts renewed attention on security at Canada's major airports and the potential risks associated with insider access to restricted areas.