LLOYDMINSTER — A routine early-morning traffic stop in Lloydminster resulted in a multi-million-dollar seizure of illegal tobacco.
Lloydminster, Alta., RCMP say that during the traffic stop on Nov. 18, officers pulled over a semi-truck travelling along 44 Street. The driver, identified as Gurjant Singh, 33, of Surrey, B.C., wasn’t able to provide police with required documentation for his load, prompting police to conduct an inspection. Their suspicions led to a search warrant for the truck and trailer.
Alberta RCMP then seized approximately 8.8 million unstamped tobacco cigarettes. The estimated street value is approximately $7.65 million dollars. The semi-truck, trailer, and the contents of its load have been seized as part of the police investigation.
“This seizure represents a significant disruption to the illegal tobacco trade,” said Sgt. Christopher Byford of the Lloydminster RCMP. “Contraband tobacco operations undermine legitimate businesses and are often linked to organized crime. Lloydminster RCMP continue to work closely with provincial and federal partners to combat contraband trafficking and any criminal activity.”
Singh has been charged with fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime valued over $5,000, unlawful possession of tobacco products, possession of proceeds of crime, possession of more than 1,000 cigarettes, and importing tobacco into Alberta.
Singh was brought before a justice and released from police custody with conditions. He is scheduled to appear in Lloydminster, Sask., Provincial Court on Dec. 16.
Anyone with information about this incident, or any other criminal activity, is asked to contact Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400. If you wish to remain anonymous, you can contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 (TIPS) or submit a tip online.
