News release

RCMP continues inspections at illegal cannabis storefronts

March 17, 2026 - Northeast Nova, Nova Scotia
From: Nova Scotia RCMP

Content

The Nova Scotia RCMP has issued two summary offence tickets (SOTs) following inspections at two illegal cannabis storefronts last week.

On March 12 and 13, under the authority of the provincial Cannabis Control Act, RCMP officers conducted inspections at illegal cannabis storefronts in the following areas: 

• the 9100 block of Hwy. 105 in Whycocomagh
• the 4200 block of Shore Rd. in Eskasoni

Inspections resulted in the seizure of a variety of cannabis products. Officers are continuing to document and inventory the seized items.

In Whycocomagh, hash was also located, along with hundreds of cannabis items that had been packaged to resemble ordinary items like candy, potato chips, cookies, chocolate bars, and cereal; this is an illegal practice that increases the chance of accidental consumption by children.

A person present at each of the two storefronts was charged under the Cannabis Control Act for operating a store that sells cannabis; the amounts of the SOTs will be determined in court. The individuals were also issued appearance notices for offences under the Nova Scotia Revenue Act involving illegal tobacco.

The investigations, which were assisted by the Department of Service Nova Scotia’s Alcohol, Gaming, Fuel and Tobacco Division, remain ongoing. 

On March 13, RCMP officers attended six storefronts and observed that they were closed for business. These locations include:

• the 0-100 block of Old St. Peters Rd. in Potlotek
• the 0-100 block of Old Band Office Rd. in Potlotek
• the 12000 block of Hwy. 4 in Potlotek
• the 12100 block of Hwy. 4 in Potlotek
• the 6500 block of Pictou Landing Rd. in Pictou Landing
• the 100 block of Saqamaw Rd. in Paqtnek

“We’re committed to reducing the impact of illegal cannabis storefronts in our communities,” says Supt. Jason Popik of the Nova Scotia RCMP. “We're now seeing more storefronts that are closed as we continue our inspection efforts. This is an early indication that police efforts to have these storefronts cease operations is working."

The Nova Scotia RCMP continues to enforce cannabis laws with a focus on public safety and the aim to have illegal cannabis storefronts cease operations; their products are often sourced from organized crime groups, are unregulated, and may pose health risks. 

Anyone with information about illegal drug activity in their community is encouraged to contact their local police or Crime Stoppers.

File #: 2026-323822, 2026-276448

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