Westlock RCMP seize a large amount of illegal tobacco products

October 5, 2026 - Westlock, Alberta
From: Alberta RCMP

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Westlock, Alta. – In Jan. 2026, Westlock RCMP received information that someone in the Westlock area was selling unstamped cigarettes. This information was corroborated by an unrelated call for service where a carton of contraband cigarettes was seized and the individual indicated they purchased it from “The Boutique” in Westlock. Westlock RCMP, with assistance from RCMP K Division Special I, began an investigation into the business, which included various surveillance techniques, to gather the necessary information. 

Over the several months of investigation, an undercover operative was used in order to purchase cigarettes. At this point, Westlock RCMP partnered with the AGLC/RCMP integrated unit to further the investigation. Between June 17 and June 18, 2026, multiple warrants were executed, resulting in seized goods and the arrest of the main suspect, who was subsequently released on conditions. 

Over the next two months, two more purchases were made by an undercover operative in relation to the same suspect:

• One purchase led to an alternate investigation culminating in warrants being executed on Aug. 26, 2026, in the Morinville and Edmonton areas. 
• The other purchase led to the discovery over a storage location on a rural property in Westlock County. The property was searched on Sept. 15, 2026, and the same suspected was once again arrested.

As a result of the 15 judicial authorizations obtained and executed, the following items were seized:

• 2,954 master cases (147,700 cartons) of unstamped/contraband cigarettes (Approximate retail value of $30,008,705.00, representing approximately $9,737,300 in deferred taxes);
• 3 firearms; 
• $225,045 in Canadian Currency; and
• Two vehicles.

As a result of the investigation a 50-year-old a resident of Westlock, was charged with multiple offences, including:

• Illegal sale of tobacco products;
• Fraud over $5000;
• Careless use of a firearm (x3); and
• Possession of property obtained by crime over $5000.

The individual was brought before a justice of the peace and released on conditions. Their next court appearance is Oct. 29, 2026, at the Westlock Court of Justice.

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