Smuggling ring butted out

BOWMANVILLE, ON - On Saturday November 1st, 2008, after a joint investigation by the Canadian Border Services Agency and the Custom and Excise Unit of the Greater Toronto Area RCMP, four individuals were arrested for possession of unlawfully packed and stamped tobacco in Richmond Hill, Ontario. At the time of arrest, $1,100.00 in cash was seized, two vehicles as well as over 700 cases of counterfeit cigarettes which are believed to have originated from China.

First court appearance for the two males and two females is set for January 9th, 2009 at the Newmarket Court house in order to answer charges under the Excise Act 2001.

The sale of contraband tobacco products does not represent any medium or long-term benefit for anyone except the individuals making the profits.

There are negative health, economic and public safety consequences for all our communities in relation to the production and sale of contraband cigarettes.

The RCMP is committed to working internally as well as with its partners and stakeholders to ensure that every effort is made to enhance public safety and economic integrity across Canada.