The Special Investigations Unit of Manitoba Finance seized almost 10,000 contraband cigarettes and 32,000 grams of shisha following tobacco compliance inspections throughout Winnipeg.
15 stores were inspected, resulting in charges against seven establishments and eight individuals, and the seizure of 9,898 cigarettes and 32,000 g of shisha, an illegal flavoured water pipe tobacco.
Locations charged:
• Fiori’s, 533 Selkirk Avenue
• T&A Convenience Store, 520 Sargent Avenue
• ROSS Convenience, 4-164 Isabel Street
• Cornerstone, 74 Isabel Street
• Strikers Deli, 832 Burrows Avenue
• Ellice Deli, 521 Ellice Avenue
• Save Money Spend Less, 348 Hargrave Street
There were multiple illegal brands seized, which are considered illegal anywhere in Canada and are ineligible for a tobacco tax stamp. Some of the accused may also face charges under the Criminal Code of Canada.
If convicted for a first-time offence under the provincial tax acts, individuals face fines between $1,000 and $10,000 and/or up to six months imprisonment.
