The Special Investigations Unit (SIU) of Manitoba Finance seized almost 10,000 contraband cigarettes and 32,000 grams of shisha following tobacco compliance inspections throughout Winnipeg.
The SIU inspected 15 stores, resulting in charges against seven establishments and eight individuals, and the seizure of 9,898 cigarettes and 32,000 g of shisha, an illegal flavoured water pipe tobacco.
There were multiple illegal brands seized, which are considered illegal anywhere in Canada and are ineligible for a tobacco tax stamp. Some of the accused may also face charges under the Criminal Code of Canada. Possession of unstamped tobacco is illegal in Manitoba. Its consumption poses a greater health risk and illicit sales hurt legitimate businesses in the community.
Locations charged:
- Fiori’s, 533 Selkirk Ave. (repeat offender);
- T&A Convenience Store, 520 Sargent Ave.;
- ROSS Convenience, 4-164 Isabel St.;
- Cornerstone, 74 Isabel St.;
- Strikers Deli, 832 Burrows Ave.;
- Ellice Deli, 521 Ellice Ave.; and
- Save Money Spend Less, 348 Hargrave St.
The province stood to lose $12,249 in tax revenue had these cigarettes been sold. The accused face charges under Manitoba’s Tobacco Tax Act, and the Tax Administration and Miscellaneous Taxes Act. If convicted for a first-time offence under the provincial tax acts, individuals face fines between $1,000 and $10,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment. In addition, they may face a triple tax penalty of various amounts totally $36,745.
The province urges anyone with information on contraband tobacco to contact their local police department, contact the Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit by calling 204-945-1137 or Manitoba CrimeStoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
