RCMP Seize 8.8 Million Contraband Cigarettes in Lloydminster Traffic Stop

Lloydminster RCMP uncovered one of the region’s largest illegal tobacco seizures after a routine traffic stop turned into a major investigation on Nov. 18, 2025.

Routine stop leads to major discovery

In the early morning hours, officers pulled over a semi-truck travelling along 44 Street. When the driver couldn’t provide the required documentation for the load, police dug deeper. An inspection of the trailer raised further concerns, prompting officers to obtain a search warrant for the truck and trailer.

What they found was staggering: roughly 8.8 million unstamped cigarettes with an estimated street value of $7.65 million. The semi, its trailer, and the full shipment were seized on the spot.

Driver facing multiple charges

The driver, Gurjant Singh, 33, of Surrey, B.C., was arrested. He now faces a suite of charges under the Criminal Code, the Excise Act, and the Alberta Tobacco Tax Act. These include fraud over $5,000, possession of property obtained by crime over $5,000, unlawful possession of tobacco products, possession of proceeds of crime, possession of more than 1,000 cigarettes, and importing tobacco into Alberta.

Singh was released after appearing before a Justice and is scheduled to be back in Lloydminster Provincial Court on Dec. 16, 2025.

Photo Provided Lloydminster RCMP

Photo Provided Lloydminster RCMP

Photo Provided Lloydminster RCMP

A blow to the illegal tobacco trade

“This seizure represents a significant disruption to the illegal tobacco trade,” said Sgt. Christopher Byford of the Lloydminster RCMP. He noted that contraband tobacco operations not only undermine law-abiding businesses but are often linked to organised crime networks.

Byford added that the Lloydminster detachment continues to work closely with provincial and federal partners to target trafficking operations and related criminal activity.

Public asked to report suspicious activity

Police are encouraging anyone with information about this investigation, or any other criminal activity, to contact the Lloydminster RCMP at 780-808-8400. Anonymous tips can be submitted through Crime Stoppers at 1-800-222-8477 or online at P3 Tips.