More than 270K illegal cigarettes seized in Whitecourt, 2 arrested: RCMP

RCMP seized more than 270,000 contraband cigarettes while searching a home in Whitecourt, Alta., on Aug. 9, 2025. (Courtesy: RCMP)

Whitecourt RCMP arrested two men after recovering more than 270,000 contraband cigarettes last week.

According to police, they observed “possible contraband tobacco” during a curfew check at a home in Whitecourt on Thursday where officers confirmed another party’s involvement.

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Mounties say they returned to the home on Saturday with a search warrant where they seized 27 cases of illegal cigarettes worth nearly $67,500.

Police charged a 44-year-old Whitecourt man with:

• failure to comply with order;
• possession of unstamped tobacco with the purpose of selling; and
• possession of stolen property.

A 33-year-old man from Whitecourt was also charged with:

• possession of stolen property; and
• possession of unstamped tobacco with the purpose of selling.

Both men are scheduled to appear before the Alberta Court of Justice on Tuesday.