Canada Provincial Enforcement Tender

Manitoba Finances Taxation Special Investigations Unit recently seized 45117 contraband cigarettes plus 3600 stolen cigarettes and 10506 in cash from three Winnipeg retail locations all owned and operated by the same people.A total of five individuals were found selling or in possession of illegal tobacco products not marked for Manitoba tax purposes. Cigarettes from a Winnipeg break and enter were also located on the premises and were being offered for sale to the public. These individuals now face charges under The Manitoba Tobacco Tax Act and The Tax Administration and Miscellaneous Taxes Act.Any tobacco retail operation engaged in illicit sales is subject to a suspension and possible revocation of their tobacco dealers licences. These three retail locations have had their licenses suspended. Separate charges for possessing stolen cigarettes are being pursued by the Winnipeg Police Service.Manitoba stood to lose more than 14000 in tax revenue if these products had been sold. If convicted the individuals face fines between 1000 and 10000 andor up to six months imprisonment. In addition if convicted they are subject to a triple tax penalty exceeding 43000.The province urges anyone who has information on contraband tobacco to contact their local police department call the Taxation Special Investigations Unit at 204-945-1137 email smugglingmanitoba@rcmp-grc.gc.ca or call Manitoba Crime Stoppers toll-free at 1-800-222-TIPS 8477.