Contraband Cigarettes seized by London RCMP

LONDON, ON, Jan. 24, 2012 /CNW/ - As a result of an investigation conducted by the London Customs & Excise Section of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) approximately 75,000 contraband cigarettes were seized from a residence located in south east London. The brands seized included Canadian, Discount, Putter's, DK's, Sago and Classic. Also seized were contraband cigarettes in resealable plastic bags, Tomahawk Little Cigars, Royal Blend Canadian Tobacco, approximately $2,000 and a vehicle which had been used as a conveyance.

A 63 year old male resident of London, Ontario has been charged with possession of a tobacco product not properly stamped and possession of proceeds of crime under the Excise Act, 2001.

Although the effects of illegal tobacco activities may not be obvious, all Canadians, feel the repercussions of these activities in the form of;

• The loss of millions in federal and provincial government revenues.
  
• Undermining of public health efforts to decrease tobacco use.
  
• Preventing legitimate business from carrying out their activities in a climate of fair competition.

"Counterfeit cigarettes are thought to be a victimless crime," stated Inspector Dwight Blok, Officer in Charge of London Detachment. "However, this type of underground economy eats away at the fabric of our society, our health care system and our social programs."

Anyone with information regarding the sale and manufacturing of contraband tobacco is asked to contact the RCMP at 1-800-387-0020 or Crime Stoppers at 1-800-265-4444.

For further information:

Cpl. Darren Morgan
Media Relation Officer
London Detachment
RCMP "O" Division
Office: [phone] ext. 248
Cell: [phone]