Police have seized about $42,000 worth of illicit nicotine products from businesses in Nelson and Castlegar.
Nelson RCMP and BC Highway Patrol officers executed two search warrants on Sept. 16 as part of an investigation into the sale of contraband nicotine pouches.
Police said investigators believe many of the seized products were counterfeit and designed to resemble well-known brands.
Health Canada regulates nicotine pouches as therapeutic smoking cessation aids. They are not approved for sale as recreational lifestyle products.
Police said legally authorized products are required to meet specific nicotine concentration requirements and can only be sold behind pharmacy counters.
Fruit and candy-flavored nicotine pouches are also prohibited in an effort to reduce their appeal to youth.
Nicotine pouches sold through convenience stores, gas stations or other retailers without Health Canada authorization are illegal.
“The restriction of oral nicotine products to pharmacy counters exists to protect youth from highly addictive substances and ensure these products are only accessed under medical guidance,” said Nelson RCMP Const. Shaun Kennedy.
The investigation remains ongoing. Charges are pending further investigation and review and approval by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada.
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