$12.3M of illegal tobacco seized in Edmonton busts

More than $12 million in illegal cigarettes and cigars were seized in two separate investigations in Edmonton.

Alberta officials say an estimated $12.3 million in illegal cigarettes and cigars has been recovered in Edmonton.

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In a Friday press release, Alberta Gaming Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) said it had seized nearly 67,000 cartons of illegal tobacco products with the help of Edmonton police.

“Keeping illegal tobacco off the streets helps make our communities safer and supports local businesses that work hard to ensure they are following the law and selling legal products,” said AGLC CEO Kandice Machado in the release.

Nineteen-thousand cartons, and 50 kilograms of contraband shisha tobacco, were recovered in a commercial warehouse and garage after a two-week investigation. AGLC said the discovery had about $3.5 million in retail value, with a provincial tax avoidance of $1.1 million.

Another three-week long investigation led officials to a person using commercial storage lockers, a warehouse and a vehicle to store and traffic the illegal products. AGLC said 47,000 cartons and 100 kilograms of shisha were found, representing about $8.8 million in retail value and $2.9 million in tax avoidance.

No details were given on when the seizures were made or where in the city.

Criminal charges are pending in both investigations.

AGLC said illegally manufactured products post public health and safety risks because they lack regulatory controls. Products include any tobacco without a red or peach-coloured stamp to show duties have been paid.

In the last year, AGLC said agents have carried out more than 255 investigations and seized more than $40 million in contraband tobacco.