RCMP/CBSA Joint Operation Leads to the Seizure of Fine Cut Tobacco

Source from:  SOUTH GLENGARRY, ON, Oct. 7 /CNW/ 10/13/2008

A 24 year old female resident of Akwesasne, Ontario faces a charge under the Excise Act 2001 for possession of a tobacco product not properly stamped after she was arrested during a joint operation involving the Cornwall and Kingston RCMP Detachments and the Canada Border Services Agency. On October 4th, 2008, officers observed a vehicle depart Akwesasne, Ontario. This vehicle was stopped by the RCMP on County Road 18 near Apple Hill, Ontario. Cornwall RCMP officers searched the vehicle and seized 584.6 kilograms of fine cut tobacco found in 45 garbage bags believed to have been manufactured in the United States and smuggled into Canada. The driver was arrested and later released to appear at the Alexandria Court House on November 5th, 2008. The RCMP also seized the vehicle. "We believe that fine cut tobacco is being smuggled into Canada to supply illegal tobacco manufacturers who produce cigarettes or pouches of tobacco for sale primarily at smoke shacks located within Aboriginal communities", said Sgt. Michael Harvey of the RCMP. "Organized crime is often involved in the illegal tobacco trade and as a result, public safety is undermined". Enditem