Busts in Grande Prairie, Fort McMurray and Calgary have turned up more than 144 kilograms of contraband tobacco products.
Shisha tobacco, chewing tobacco and cigars were seized by the Alberta Gaming and Liquor Commission in September and October.
Director of Investigations Gary Beam says that represents more than $32,000 in potential lost tax revenue.
“They would be brought in from a variety of sources; they could be brought in from overseas, from the U.S., from Eastern Canada. The fact that they’re unlawfully selling the product, they’re unlawfully in possession of the product, and it was unlawfully imported.”
Beam encourages anyone who suspects illegal tobacco production or trafficking to report it.
“Any information relative to contraband tobacco products is greatly appreciated, and information in that regard can be passed to the AGLA Tobacco Enforcement Unit at 1-800-577-2522.”
In Grande Prairie, Timothy Trepanier is facing charges, and will next be in court on January 12 of next year.
