Edmonton convenience store owners accused of trafficking weapons, selling illegal tobacco

Edmonton police are cracking down on convenience stores selling illegal tobacco and weapons.

The Edmonton Police Service (EPS) has charged the owners of a convenience store on 96 Street and 106 Avenue for allegedly selling illegal tobacco, weapons trafficking and drug related offences.

The EPS and Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) initiated an investigation into the convenience store last month. On July 19, members of EPS Healthy Streets Operations Centre (HSOC) executed a search warrant and allegedly came across controlled substances, drug paraphernalia and a large amount of cash.

Police say they recovered $200,000 cash; 28,000 illegal cigarettes worth more than $8,500 in tax avoidance; weapons including expandable batons and a large machete; as well as controlled substances including fentanyl, crystal meth and cocaine with an estimated street value of nearly $35,000.

“We are seeing a disturbing trend with convenience stores openly selling drug paraphernalia, weapons and contraband tobacco and then dabbling into the sale of illicit drugs,” Cst. Michael Davis with EPS’ Crime Suppression Branch said in a news release. “This is turning convenience stores into a one-stop-shop for drug abusers and traffickers. It’s threatening the safety of Chinatown and is tarnishing its cultural identity and vibrancy in Edmonton.”

Three suspects in their 20s are facing charges including tobacco trafficking, fraud over $5,000, and possession for the purpose of weapons trafficking.