Lloydminster RCMP have laid multiple charges after seizing an estimated 7.2 million unstamped cigarettes during a traffic stop in the city.
Officers pulled over a semi-truck and trailer on 44 Street, west of 50 Avenue, on Feb. 22. Police say the lone male driver could not provide required documentation for the load, prompting officers to inspect the trailer.
Inside, police discovered 24 pallets containing an estimated 48,000 cartons of contraband tobacco products.
RCMP estimate the retail value at more than $6 million, with over $2 million in unpaid taxes.
Police seized the semi-truck, trailer and entire load as part of the investigation.
The 62-year-old driver, Mubarak Khan of Calgary, Alta., was arrested at the scene.
He faces charges including fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000 and unlawful possession of tobacco products under the Excise Act.
Khan remains in custody and is scheduled to appear March 3 in Lloydminster Provincial Court.
Sgt. Christopher Byford, operations NCO with Lloydminster RCMP, said the seizure disrupts illegal tobacco trafficking.
“This seizure represents another significant disruption to illegal tobacco contraband,” said Byford.
“Criminal activity undermines legitimate businesses and is often linked to organized crime. Lloydminster RCMP work with provincial and federal partners to combat contraband trafficking and other crime.”
Police are asking anyone with information about illegal tobacco sales or other criminal activity to contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400. Anonymous tips can be submitted to Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online through P3Tips.
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