SAULT STE. MARIE, ON, Oct. 2, 2012 /CNW/ - As a result of a joint investigation between the RCMP and the OPP, the RCMP's Border Integrity Section interdicted a vehicle just East of Desbarats on its way to Sault Ste. Marie. As a result of the investigation, four cases (200 cartons) of contraband cigarettes were seized from inside the vehicle. In total, 40,000 brown filtered cigarettes were removed from the illegal tobacco market.
The illicit tobacco trade is a global phenomenon that contributes to the growth of transnational organized crime and undermines public health objectives.
"It is illegal to possess or sell tobacco products that are not packaged or stamped as required by Canadian law", said Cpl. Mike Duguay - in charge of the Border Integrity Section.
Both Philip GRECO, 73 and Mark Ryan DUBOIS, 21, of Sault Ste. Marie, Ontario are charged with Possessing Unmarked Tobacco contrary to Section 32 (1) of the Excise Act 2001. They are scheduled to appear in court on December 3rd, 2012.
For photos related to this investigation please visit: http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/on/news-nouvelles/index-eng.htm
Anyone with information regarding criminal activity is encouraged to contact their local police, the RCMP at 1-800-387-0020 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS.
SOURCE: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Cpl. Mike Duguay,
RCMP - Sault Ste. Marie Detachment
Border Integrity Section
705-941-7267 ex 222
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