Prosecutions and Seizures

Quebec Region

CBSA seizes 10,570 kg of loose tobacco at St-Bernard-de-Lacolle border crossing

Montréal, Quebec, June 27, 2013 — The Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) announced today that its officers seized 10,570 kg of contraband tobacco with an estimated street value of $850,000 at the St-Bernard-de-Lacolle border crossing.

On June 19, 2013, a truck driver came to the border crossing with goods declared as shredded paper. The officer who checked the declaration was suspicious. He therefore referred the truck for an examination. During the search, there was a strong odour of tobacco. The first rows of goods were indeed shredded paper, but bags of tobacco had been stowed behind. Border services officers found a total of 10,570 kg of loose tobacco in 585 bags.

The CBSA investigation is underway.

"The proceeds of illegal tobacco sales fuel organized crime and undermine the safety of our communities. I applaud the CBSA officers involved in this significant seizure of contraband tobacco," said Benoît Chiquette, Regional Director General of the CBSA in Quebec.

The Customs Act stipulates that all goods entering Canada must be declared to CBSA officers. Smuggling, false declarations and other customs violations may lead to administrative penalties and prosecution in a court of law, for both truck drivers and transport companies.

In 2012, Canada Border Services Agency officers seized more than $3 million worth of tobacco.

– 30 –

For media information

Media Relations, Quebec Region
Canada Border Services Agency
514-350-6130

Follow us on Twitter (@CanBorder), join us on Facebook or visit our YouTube channel.

---