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In November 2023, the Winnipeg Police Service's North District Community Support Units became aware of a community concern about the sale of illegal tobacco products at several general/convenience stores in Winnipeg.
With assistance from North District General Patrol, an investigation began and identified several individuals and two convenience stores. Investigators determined that during business hours, cannabis and tobacco products (which are age-restricted – must be 18) were readily accessible and available for sale to the general public of all ages.
Under Manitoba's Tobacco Taxation Act, Smoking and Vapour Products Control Act, and the Cannabis Act, investigators obtained search warrants for the involved businesses in the first 100 block of Stadacona Street and 200 block of Salter Street, respectively.
On March 18, 2024, with assistance from the East District Community Support Unit, Taxation officers, and the Tactical Support Team, the North District Community Support Unit executed search warrants at both locations and seized various cartons of illegal cigarettes and cannabis products along with over $11,000 in Canadian currency.
Investigators arrested a 34-year-old male, two 37-year-old males, and a 41-year-old male who face several charges related to contravening the above Provincial Acts and Possession of Proceeds Obtained by Crime.
All were released on Undertakings as mandated by the Criminal Code.