Buying illegal cigarettes profits large-scale organized crime, Alberta police warn

Authorities in Alberta are trying to clamp down on the sale of illegal tobacco in the province.

Alberta RCMP says the sale of illicit tobacco products affects communities “in ways that may not be immediately apparent.”

“The illegal cigarettes may not follow health and safety standards, they harm local businesses that are operating legitimately, and the funds received from illegal sales of tobacco may go towards other, more harmful, illegal activities,” Mounties said in a news release.

Police say the money made from selling illegal cigarettes often goes into the coffers of “large-scale organized criminal enterprises.”

To curb the sale of illicit tobacco, Alberta Crime Stoppers launched a new campaign Tuesday.

“Illicit tobacco is often misunderstood as a low-level issue, but it is frequently linked to organized crime and broader community harm,” said Vivianna Botticelli, interim board chair of Alberta Crime Stoppers.

“This campaign is about helping Albertans understand that the price tag isn’t the real cost — and reminding the public that Crime Stoppers provides a safe, anonymous way to report suspicious activity they may see in their communities.”

Alberta Gaming, Liquor and Cannabis (AGLC) says in the past five years, Alberta has seen a rise in contraband tobacco activities, which leads to a drop in tobacco tax revenue.

Albertans are urged to contact Crime Stoppers with any tip regarding illegal tobacco sales.