FREDERICTON (GNB) – Peace officers from the Department of Justice and Public Safety seized contraband cigarettes and various illegal tobacco products after stopping a vehicle on Route 8 in Allardville.
A 39-year-old man from Eel Ground First Nation was arrested and released. He could face charges for violating the Tobacco Tax Act and the Criminal Code. The investigation is ongoing.
On Sept. 21, officers seized 137,000 cigarettes, 75 flavoured cigars and five cans of chewing tobacco. The seized goods have a provincial tax value of $35,064 and a federal excise tax value of $21,753.
The sale of contraband tobacco removes tax revenues that support government programs. The trafficking of contraband cigarettes supports the underground economy and organized crime.
The vehicle – a 2022 Jeep Gladiator – and $655 in cash were also seized.
The department works with the Sûreté du Quebec and other law enforcement agencies to prevent the sale, transportation and distribution of illegal commodities.
Residents are encouraged to report the trafficking of contraband cannabis or tobacco, or any other criminal matter, to law enforcement. Information can be shared with the Department of Justice and Public Safety by calling 1-877-826-2122 or it can be provided anonymously through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477), by downloading the secure P3 Mobile App, or by Secure Web Tips at http://www.crimenb.ca.
29-09-23