Ontario Seizes Over 10 Million Unmarked Cigarettes and 1.5 Million Grams of Tobacco

The Ontario government announced it has seized more than 10 million unmarked cigarettes and 1.5 million grams of unmarked tobacco over the past two months. According to the province, these seizures are part of enforcement activities intended to address contraband tobacco in Ontario.

The government release states that unmarked tobacco products are not subject to provincial taxes and are not authorized for sale under Ontario law. The announcement included that products seized in such operations are slated for destruction.

According to the Ontario government, individuals found in possession of or selling unmarked tobacco can face fines under provincial legislation.

The release notes that contraband tobacco is sometimes associated with organized crime. The Ministry of Finance advises the public to purchase tobacco only from authorized retailers and notes that buying unmarked tobacco is prohibited.

The statement did not specify the locations where seizures occurred or identify any individuals involved. All information is based on details provided by the Ontario government.