Justice
May 16, 2007

Government, Police Forces and Crime Stoppers Partner to Prevent Smuggling

The Williams Government�s commitment to making communities and highways safer was further solidified today as the Honourable Tom Osborne, Minister of Justice, joined with the Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP), the Royal Newfoundland Constabulary (RNC) and Newfoundland and Labrador Crime Stoppers to announce new investments in the fight against contraband smuggling in the province.

"Our police forces have always been serious about fighting contraband smuggling and our government is now committing even more resources for more officers, as well as an aggressive media campaign to encourage Newfoundlanders and Labradorians to report activity they suspect may be linked to contraband," said Minister Osborne. "We are committed to partnering with communities, law enforcement agencies and Crime Stoppers to prevent smuggling."

Budget 2007 committed $330,000 of new funding for three additional officers to be assigned to the RCMP Customs and Excise program. They will increase the RCMP�s investigative capacity to detect and prosecute persons involved in the sale, distribution and possession of contraband products. Many of these tobacco and alcohol products pose serious health risks as they do not pass through any standardized regulatory process and may contain ingredients and chemicals which are harmful. In addition, many of the individuals who are involved in contraband activities have links to organized crime.

"Public safety is our fundamental priority. This is a serious public safety and health issue. The illegal tobacco and alcohol trade often involves a complex web of criminal players who deal in illegal manufacturing, distribution, and sales and purchasing," said RCMP Commanding Officer and Assistant Commissioner Gerry Lynch. "People get involved because they see quick money, but they may not realize the RCMP will seize any material goods such as vehicles, power boats and even homes if they are purchased with proceeds of crime."

The RNC will focus its efforts near the Labrador-Quebec border, in addition to continuing its vigilance in the other areas of the province for which it has jurisdiction.

"We embrace being a part of this project. Our members have seen the impact organized crime activity has on a community," said RNC Police Chief Joe Browne. "There are many factors to consider, including the health risks to consuming contraband products and the revenue loss for the province, as well as the risks of having people in the province who are engaged in organized criminal activity. We will assist in any way we can to curb these types of activities."

In addition, the Department of Justice and its partners will begin a media campaign in the coming weeks to encourage individuals to report information on contraband products and illegal activity to Crime Stoppers.

"All calls and web tips are not traced or recorded and are totally secure and fully anonymous. If callers wish to give their names, Crime Stoppers has no choice but to terminate the call and erase the information. We only deal with anonymous tips and we do this world wide," said Corporal Boyd Merrill, Provincial Police Coordinator of Crime Stoppers. "Our personnel are available 24-7 to take calls."

Statistics show the province loses approximately $19 million in excise taxes and $4 million in provincial sales tax revenue due to illegal contraband activity.

Since 2003, the Williams Government has put an additional $20 million into policing in the province.

"With the implementation of this project, we are putting forth a more consolidated effort to identify individuals bringing contraband in," said Minister Osborne. "Many people do not realize that contraband products are not only illegal, but they can also be very hazardous to your health."

To report suspicious activity, contact Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-TIPS (8477) or by visiting www.rocktips.ca

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Media contact:
Deborah Pennell
Director of Communications
Department of Justice
709-729-6985, 685-6612
deborahpennell@gov.nl.ca  

2007 05 16                                                  11:25 a.m.

 


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