Windsor RCMP seize contraband tobacco

WINDSOR,ON, June 23, 2014 /CNW/ - On June 20th, 2014; 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 one Windsor resident was arrested and currently faces charges under the Excise Act 2001.

On June 20^th, 2014; officers executed search warrants at a convenience store located on the 1000 block of Campbell Avenue and at a private residence on the 1000 block of Pierre Street in Windsor, ON. Seized were approximately 232 cartons of contraband cigarettes. A Dodge Caravan automobile and a small quantity of Canadian currency were also seized.

A 56 year old Windsor man faces charges of possession of unstamped tobacco and other related offences under the Excise Act 2001.  He was released from custody on a Promise to Appear and is scheduled to make a first appearance in the Windsor Ontario Court of Justice on August 11^th, 2014.

"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)

Image with caption: "Samples of illegal cigarettes zip lock bags that were found during the search stored in a suitcase (CNW Group/Royal Canadian Mounted Police)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140623_C8423_PHOTO_EN_41666.jpg

Image with caption: "Samples of Discount Carton cigarettes seized during the search (CNW Group/Royal Canadian Mounted Police)". Image available at: http://photos.newswire.ca/images/download/20140623_C8423_PHOTO_EN_41667.jpg

SOURCE: Royal Canadian Mounted Police

For further information:

Sgt. Peter KOERSVELT
Windsor RCMP Detachment
Ph. 519-995-8372

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