12 cases of contraband cigarettes seized with an estimated value of $24,000.
On November 2, 2009 at about 1:30am, a Portage la Prairie RCMP member was patrolling the Trans Canada Highway near Angle Road in Portage la Prairie when a 1996 Ford Windstar van from British Columbia was observed traveling Westbound.
RCMP noted that the vehicle was missing the rear bumper and a tie down strap was hanging out the back of the van. The vehicle was stopped for the equipment violation when police were able to observe a large quantity of cigarettes in the rear of the vehicle.
The driver of the vehicle was arrested under the Federal Excise Act and the vehicle was searched resulting in the seizure of 12 cases of contraband cigarettes, each containing 50 cartons of cigarettes totaling 120,000 cigarettes. The value of the contraband cigarettes is estimated at $24,000.
The driver, a 31-year-old male from Ontario currently residing in British Columbia, was released on a promise to appear for December 10, 2009 at Provincial Court in Winnipeg, Manitoba. Charges are pending under the Federal Excise act and the Provincial Manitoba Tobacco Tax Act.
In this matter, a tax penalty of $66,600 could also be assessed. Manitoba taxes avoided amount to $22,200.
Manitoba Finance Special Investigations Unit is working in conjunction with the RCMP Portage Detachment Investigation. RCMP investigation is continuing with the assistance of the RCMP Customs and Excise Section.
If you have any information on contraband tobacco, you are urged to contact your local police department or Manitoba Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).
Cst. Miles Hiebert
Portage la Prairie RCMP
Tel: (204)239-8908
Fax: (204)239-0130
