A traffic stop for speeding and a broken headlight netted the seizure of more than 100,000 illicit cigarettes by the Corman Park Police Service (CPPS).
According to a news release, members of the CPPS were conducting patrols and traffic enforcement near Highway 16 and Dalmeny Road at approximately 8:45 p.m. on March 4.
Officers observed a Dodge Ram pick-up truck travelling 100 kilometres per hour in an 80 km/h zone with only one functioning headlight.
A traffic stop was initiated, and when the officer approached the vehicle, he observed the lone male driver was in possession of a package of unstamped tobacco.
The officer, who is experienced in illegal tobacco enforcement, quickly confirmed the presence of a large quantity of illicit cigarettes.
Ultimately, police seized 10 cases, each containing 50 cartons with about 200 illicit cigarettes each. The estimated street value of this seizure is between $20,000 to $40,000.
“Illicit tobacco is a lucrative source of revenue for organized crime and provides a relatively low-risk income stream that costs provincial and federal governments millions of dollars in lost tax revenue each year,” said CCPS Chief Rob Duttchen.
“These lost funds mean the harms caused by illicit tobacco are borne by the health care system and law-abiding taxpayers without any corresponding cost recovery.”
During the course of the investigation, the officer also formed the opinion that the driver may have been impaired by drugs. As a result, a demand for an oral fluid sample was made.
A 65-year-old male from Fort Qu’Appelle was charged with possession of unstamped tobacco for the purpose of sale, contrary to Section 121.1 (1) of the Criminal Code.
The driver also received an administrative three-day licence suspension after the positive oral fluid test, as well as an offence notice for speeding.
Duttchen noted that proactive traffic enforcement and the interdiction of illicit substances, tobacco and weapons remain key priorities of the CPPS in support of safer roads and safer communities throughout Saskatchewan.