Royal Canadian Mounted Police
www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca
Common menu bar links
Raids against Smugglers in the Valleyfield Area
Archived Content
Information identified as archived on the Web is for reference, research or recordkeeping purposes. It has not been altered or updated after the date of archiving. Web pages that are archived on the Web are not subject to the Government of Canada Web Standards. As per the Communications Policy of the Government of Canada, you can request alternate formats on the "Contact Us" page.
Valleyfield, December 4, 2009 – As part of surveillance operations targeting illegal contraband tobacco smuggling, investigators of the Central St. Lawrence Valley Detachment – Valleyfield Office, in partnership with the Sûreté du Québec, conducted two raids in the Sainte-Martine and Saint-Anicet area this week. These raids resulted in seizures valued at approximately $300,000.
During these two operations, some 9,350 resealable plastic bags containing 200 illegal cigarettes each were seized. In addition to the contraband cigarettes, officers also seized three vehicles and a boat used by the smugglers as well as cash in Canadian currency. Nine individuals were arrested.
(Click on photos to enlarge)
The suspects are scheduled to appear in court to face charges including under the Excise Act, 2001. Charges of possession of non-compliant tobacco contrary to the provincial Tobacco Tax Act could also be filed.
It is illegal to possess or sell tobacco products that are not packaged or stamped as required by Canadian law. In an effort to reduce demand, the RCMP uses various methods to raise public awareness of the consequences of buying contraband tobacco products. The illicit tobacco trade presents a serious and growing threat to public safety and health in Canada. People need to be aware that they are funding criminal activity when they purchase contraband tobacco products.
The Royal Canadian Mounted Police encourages citizens to report any information on suspected illicit activities by individuals or groups to the investigators of the RCMP Valleyfield Office at 450-377-3223 or Info-Crime Québec at 1 800 711-1800. All tips will be kept confidential.
-30-
For information:
Communications Office
514-939-8308
