Alberta’s Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis Tobacco Enforcement Unit recently seized $5.3 million in contraband retail tobacco products, including an estimated 5.7 million contraband cigarettes or 28,000 cartons and 93.2 kilograms in contraband shisha. The total potential lost tax revenue is estimated to be $1.7 million.
A month-long investigation resulted in search warrants executed at two Edmonton-based warehouses. The investigation is still ongoing and charges are pending.
In a 10-month period, AGLC has seized an estimated $33.5 million in contraband cigarettes and 208 kilograms of contraband shisha in multiple investigations throughout the province by the Unit. The total potential lost tax revenue is estimated to be more than $12.8 million.
Contraband tobacco is any tobacco product that does not comply with federal and provincial laws related to importation, marking, manufacturing, stamping and payment of duties and taxes.
