The Ontario Association of Crime Stoppers is announcing the launch of an awareness website about the growing problem of contraband tobacco. In Ontario one (1) in three cigarettes are illegal.

The presence of contraband tobacco in Ontario:
 undermines government efforts to reduce smoking rates
 profits from contraband tobacco are known to have a direct link to criminal activity, such as trafficking of drugs, purchasing illegal weapons and funding other illicit activities.
 results in a loss of government tax revenue estimated at about $800 million a year

Information about contraband tobacco can be reported anonymously to Crime Stoppers.

Crime Stoppers is a partnership of the public, police and media, which provides the community with a proactive Program to anonymously assist in solving crime and contributing to an improved quality of life.

Information about crime and criminal activity is best reported to the police. Sometimes people are afraid to go to the police because they fear reprisal, have concern for their own safety, may be close to the criminal act but not involved. However, people still want to do the right thing. Crime Stoppers can be your voice. Your tip is anonymous. Crime Stoppers does not subscribe to call display. Your anonymity is protected by Supreme Court of Canada case law.

Report information about contraband tobacco anonymously to Crime Stoppers at 1.800.222.TIPS or Submit A Tip online at www.contrabandawareness.com
For more information about contraband tobacco visit www.contrabandawareness.com

source: media release, Crime Stoppers