WINDSOR, ON, July 18, 2013 /CNW/ - On July 17, 2013 members of the Windsor RCMP concluded an investigation into the sale and distribution of contraband tobacco products in the Windsor area. As a result of the investigation two Windsor residents were arrested and are currently facing charges under the Excise Act, 2001.
On July 17, 2013, officers executed a search warrant at a convenience store located on Westcott Street in Windsor. Seized were 389 cartons of illegal cigarettes and $1,670 in cash as a result of the search.
Ali HANZEL - 38 years old and Diana HANZEL - 41 years old; both face charges of unlawful possession of unstamped tobacco contrary to the Excise Act 2001. Both are scheduled to appear in Windsor Ontario Court of Justice on Monday, August 19, 2013.
A search warrant was executed by the RCMP at the same location on June 28, 2013. Both Ali and Diana HANZEL face similar Excise Act, 2001 charges as a result of that police investigation. Seized at the time were 220 cartons of illegal cigarettes, a vehicle and approximately $6,000.00 in cash.
"The sale of contraband tobacco remains a threat to public safety and has been determined to support organized crime", stated Inspector Serge Cote, Officer in Charge of Windsor Detachment. "The RCMP remains committed to disrupting and interdicting those persons involved in the illicit sale and distribution of contraband tobacco."
If you have information about the sale and distribution of illegal tobacco products or any other criminal activity you are asked to contact your local police department or the Windsor RCMP detachment at 519-948-5287 or at 1-800-387-0020. You can also anonymously supply the information to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477)
Pictures of the seizure are available on the RCMP "O" Division website
http://www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/on/news-nouvelles/2013/13-07-18-windsor-eng.htm
SOURCE: Royal Canadian Mounted Police
Sgt. Peter KOERSVELT
Windsor RCMP Detachment
Ph. 519-995-8372
Web: www.rcmp-grc.gc.ca/on/
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