Winnipeg Police Service has arrested and charged a 41-year-old female in connection to the sale of illegal tobacco and cannabis at three Winnipeg area convenience stores.
Police began the investigation following community concern regarding illegal products being sold in the stores. Between September 2023 and January 2024, officers inspected various stores under Manitoba’s Tax Administration and Miscellaneous Taxes Act and the Smoking and Vapour Products Control Act.
The inspections resulted in three stores being identified in the 700 block of Sargent Avenue, the 600 block of Westminster Avenue, and the 800 block of Talbot Avenue. Police say that during business hours cannabis and tobacco products in plain view and available to minors. Officers also found cartons of illegal cigarettes and cannabis products concealed within the stores.
Two male employees at the Sargent Avenue stone were charged with Possess Cannabis for the Purpose of Selling (Cannabis Act) and Provincial Offence Notices related to promoting or advertising Tobacco or related products where children are permitted access.
The owner of the store was out of the country at the time of the arrests but on January 30, 2024, she was arrested while returning to the city.
Harpreet Mangat has been charged for her alleged involvement with 30 offences, including those related to the sale of unmarked tobacco products and selling cannabis/accessories appealing to young persons.
© 2024 News4.ca
