RCMP, OPP Intercept Tobacco Smuggler Near Kemptville, Ontario

KINGSTON, ON, Dec. 22 /CNW/ -On Friday December 3^rd, 2010 the Kingston Royal Canadian Mounted Police Customs and Excise Section and the Kemptville Ontario Provincial Police intercepted a GMC pick-up truck traveling westbound on Highway #43 near Kemptville, Ontario smuggling contraband cigarettes.  A total of 250,000 contraband cigarettes were seized valued at approximately $27,500.00.

A 40 year old male resident of Kemptville, Ontario was arrested and will appear on Friday, January 14^th, 2011, in Brockville Court.  The 1994 GMC Sierra pick-up truck he was driving was also seized as a conveyance in accordance to the Excise Act and is valued at approximately $1,000.00. Under the provisions of the Excise Act, if convicted the man faces a minimum fine of $42,500.00.

"The overall goal of the RCMP Customs and Excise Section is to protect Canadians and the economic integrity of Canada from both trans-national and domestic criminality. Reducing the availability and decreasing the demand for contraband tobacco are key components to achieving this outcome" stated Corporal Blair Kelly of the RCMP Kingston Detachment.

The public is reminded that they can provide information relating to any criminal activity by contacting the Provincial Crime Stoppers agency confidential tip line at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477).

For further information:

Cpl. Blair J. Kelly
Royal Canadian Mounted Police    
Kingston Detachment Proceeds of Crime
[phone] Ext. 229