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Major Illegal Tobacco Seizure in Saint-Anicet
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Valleyfield, Tuesday, May 11, 2010 – Members of the Valleyfield Royal Canadian Mounted Police, in partnership with officers of the Sûreté du Québec Project ACCES, conducted two major illegal tobacco seizures in the Saint-Anicet region, Montérégie. Three individuals were arrested and could face charges under the Excise Act, 2001 and the Québec Tobacco Tax Act.
First, during the night of May 5, 2010, the officers intercepted tobacco smugglers as they were unloading a shipment of illegal tobacco products directly in the yard of a cabin located along the St. Lawrence Seaway. The officers seized 160 boxes containing over 1.6 million cigarettes not stamped in conformity with Canadian law. The cigarettes were in “Ziploc” type bags. In addition to the tobacco products, two boats valued at a total of $64,000 were seized by the police.
During the same night, the officers also intercepted a tow truck registered in Ontario towing a cube truck on Highway 132 eastbound in Saint-Anicet. Inside the cube truck 119 boxes of illegal tobacco products were found. The driver and passenger of the tow truck were apprehended. A total of 1.19 million cigarettes not stamped in conformity with Canadian law were found in “Ziploc” type bags and were seized.
It is illegal to possess or sell tobacco products that are not packaged or stamped as required by Canadian law. 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 RCMP takes this opportunity to inform local residents of future actions. Together with our law enforcement partners, we will intensify our efforts to effectively fight tobacco smuggling activity and protect the interest of the community.
The public is invited to report any information on suspected illicit activities by individuals or groups to the investigators of the RCMP Central St. Lawrence Valley Detachment, Valleyfield Office at 450-377-3223. All tips will be kept confidential.
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For information:
François Blais, Sgt
Central St. Lawrence Valley Detachment
Valleyfield Office
450-377-3223
