Date: Thursday, May 11, 2023
File: 23-7127
Victoria, BC – Last month VicPD investigators executed two search warrants in the Greater Victoria area which resulted in the seizure of contraband cigarettes and cash.
In February, officers with the General Investigation Section (GIS) began an investigation into the sale of contraband tobacco in the Greater Victoria area.
The investigation led officers to a storage locker in View Royal and a residence in the 2400-block of Chambers Street in Victoria. On April 12, investigators executed search warrants at both locations and seized over 2,000 cartons of contraband cigarettes and $65,000 in Canadian currency. The value of the seized cigarettes is approximately $450,000.
Some of the tobacco products seized by GIS investigators
For tobacco products to be sold legally in BC, they must have provincial stamps displayed on the packaging that indicates the payment of both provincial and federal taxes. Contraband tobacco is identified by having no provincial stamps displayed on the packaging.
Investigators believe contraband tobacco is being sold in Greater Victoria at a fraction of its retail price, which likely has a negative impact on local retail outlets and small businesses.
If you have information about the sale of contraband tobacco please call the VicPD Report Desk at (250) 995-7654 extension 1. To report what you know anonymously, please call Greater Victoria Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477.
This file is still under investigation and further details cannot be shared at this time.
-30-
We’re seeking qualified candidates for both police officer and civilian positions. Thinking about a career in public service? VicPD is an equal-opportunity employer. Join VicPD and help us make Victoria and Esquimalt a safer community together.
