RCMP Seize Cigarettes and Cash and Arrest of 2 Toronto Residents

TORONTO , Dec. 30 /CNW/ - On December 22, 2009 , officers from GTA RCMP Customs & Excise Section arrested a 46 year old female and a 59 year old male resident of Toronto for possessing of "unstamped tobacco".

Members of the RCMP GTA Customs & Excise Section conducted an investigation after receiving information of two individuals selling illegal cigarettes in the Toronto area. RCMP officers moved in as the individuals were transporting a significant quantity of cigarettes and arrested the two individuals in the area of Dufferin Street near King Street . Over 100,000 cigarettes (approximately 500 cartons) were seized from the vehicle. The investigation continued which led to the execution of a search warrant at a Dowling Avenue residence which netted an additional 30 cartons of illegal cigarettes as well as a sum of currency in excess of $14,000.00 .

"The RCMP encourages people to report any incidents of illegal cigarette sales as the money generated from the sale of illegal tobacco often fund organized crime and other criminal activities" stated Inspector Greg Johnson , the Officer in Charge of the Greater Toronto Area Customs & Excise Section. "The tax revenue generated from tobacco is used to fund many social programs and the illicit tobacco trade has an adverse effect on these services".

Both will appear in court on January 22nd, 2010 to face charges for possession of unstamped tobacco contrary to the Excise Act, 2001.

Pictures of this seizure are also available by e-mail request.

For further information: Mark du Puy, Cpl., Royal Canadian Mounted Police, Toronto West Customs & Excise, Bus: [phone], Cell: [phone], [email protected]