Nearly $500K in tobacco seized at the Cornwall border this spring
Between April 1 and June 30, 2025, the Ontario RCMP Border Integrity team and its partners in the Cornwall region, laid multiple charges and seized nearly $500,000 worth of contraband tobacco products.
Each case involved an individual attempting to transport cigars, cigarettes or other illicit products into Ontario. Authorities says revenues from contraband tobacco often support organized crime activities, such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and firearms smuggling.
The Cornwall Regional Task Force (CRTF) is a joint task force made up of the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), Ontario Provincial Police (OPP), Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA), and the Ontario Ministry of Finance. This multi-agency operation works with U.S. partners to disrupt crime on both sides of the border.
Spanning the months of April, May, and June, enforcement efforts by the CRTF led to the seizure of contraband tobacco and other products worth approximately $497,419. The CRTF also seized seven vehicles.
As a result of the seizures by the CRTF, the RCMP has charged several individuals with possession of vaping products, unlawful possession of unstamped cannabis products, unstamped tobacco products, unstamped cigars and nicotine pouches and smuggling. following individuals:
Total Product Seized
| Cigars | Cigarettes | Nicotine Pouches | E-Cigarette Vapes | Cannabis Vapes |
| 194,610 | 214,240 | 480 | 1100 | 590 |
READ: Alberta authorities announce major seizure of contraband tobacco
"These seizures reflect the evolving and increasingly sophisticated threats at our borders and our unwavering commitment to meet them head-on,” said Insp. Etienne Thauvette, officer in Charge RCMP Cornwall Detachment. “With the Government of Canada's renewed focus and investment in border security, combined with strong partnerships across law enforcement and intelligence communities, we are better equipped than ever to intercept illegal goods and protect Canadians."
"Canada Border Services Agency officers are our first line of defence against cross-border crime. When CBSA officers intercept contraband, they stop potential proceeds from being reinvested into other criminal activity. We will continue working alongside our Cornwall Regional Task Force partners to keep our communities safe," added Jag Johnston, regional director general, CBSA Northern Ontario Region.
