A Japanese man has been arrested on suspicion of trying to smuggle more than 100 kilograms of liquid containing an illegal drug in bottles from Canada.

Officials at the Yokohama Customs say Sasaki Hiroshi, aged 63, tried to import 116 kilograms of liquid in maple syrup bottles from Vancouver to Yokohama Port. They say the liquid contained a stimulant drug with an estimated street value of nearly 50 million dollars.

Customs officials examined a container that had been left at Yokohama Port for six months and found the bottles inside.

They have not disclosed whether the suspect has admitted to the allegation.

Police had already arrested him on suspicion of using stimulants. They are investigating the possibility of organizational involvement in the man's actions.