As the result of an investigation into tobacco smuggling, the Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit recently seized 240,000 contraband cigarettes contained in unmarked plastic bags, each holding a carton equivalent of 200 cigarettes. In addition, cash of just over $11,000 was seized.
The investigation led to a search warrant being obtained and executed at a self-storage unit in the city of Winnipeg on Feb. 1. Winnipeg Police Service East District general patrol uniformed members assisted at the search scene which was also attended by the RCMP Customs and Excise Unit.
Two adult males, one from Portage La Prairie and the other from Oakville were arrested and subsequently released on Tobacco Tax Act charges of possession of the cigarettes. They are to appear in court on March 24.
The two individuals face charges under the Manitoba Tobacco Tax Act and the Excise Act (2001). The potential Manitoba tobacco taxes avoided would be $49,000. If convicted, the two would face fines of up to $5,000, imprisonment for as long as three months or both. A tax penalty of $147,600 could also be assessed. Additional penalties could apply under the Excise Act (2001).
If anyone has information on contraband tobacco, they are urged to contact their local police department, the Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit at 204-945-1137 or Manitoba Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
