Illegal tobacco products seized near Gull Lake
On the afternoon of November 16, an officer with Swift Current Rural RCMP observed a semi speeding on Highway #1 near Gull Lake and conducted a traffic stop. Further investigation determined the semi was hauling illegal tobacco products. The semi driver was arrested.
Saskatchewan RCMP’s Swift Current Saskatchewan Trafficking Response Team (STRT) and Moose Jaw Crime Reduction Team (CRT) obtained and executed a search warrant in the semi and attached trailer. They located approximately 42,000 cartons of illegal cigarettes.
As a result of continued investigation, 46-year-old Michael Weins from Aldergrove, BC is charged with:
one count, possession of unstamped tobacco, Section 121.1(10, Criminal Code;
one count, possession of unstamped tobacco products, Section 32(1), Excise Tax Act; and
one count, possession of unmarked tobacco, Section 11(8), Tobacco Tax Act.
Michael Weins is scheduled to appear in Swift Current Provincial Court on January 17, 2024.