Posted on 05/16/2009, 11:32 am, by mySteinbach

Officials from RCMP Traffic Services and the Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit seized 150 cases of illegal, unmarked cigarettes in plastic bags and 25 cases of “discount” brand cigarettes in the West Hawk Lake area near the Manitoba-Ontario border on May 13.
 
There were a total of 1,750,000 illegal cigarettes seized, none of which had proper tax stamps for Manitoba or Canada. The estimated street value of the cigarettes in Winnipeg is $395,000.
 
The driver of the vehicle, a 45-year-old man from St. Constant, Que., faces charges under the Excise Act (2001) and the Manitoba Tobacco Tax Act. Manitoba taxes avoided amount to $323,750. People convicted under the Tobacco Tax Act can face fines up to $5,000, imprisonment for up to three months or both. In this matter, a tax penalty of $971,250 could also be assessed. Additional penalties could apply under the Excise Act (2001). All tobacco products were seized and are being held by Manitoba Finance.
 
The seizure began as part of a traffic safety check on a westbound rental truck on the Trans-Canada Highway during National Road Safety Week activities. National Road Safety Week is an enforcement-driven initiative by the RCMP designed to increase public compliance with safe driving measures and to ultimately save lives. Assistance in the seizure, which was carried out at about 5 p.m. Wednesday was also provided by the Falcon Beach RCMP detachment.
 
The Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit reminds members of the public they are encouraged to report information on the activities of individuals or groups related to illegal tobacco to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or in Winnipeg at 786-TIPS. All tips are kept confidential.