RCMP seize $42,000 in illicit nicotine products during coordinated operation in Castlegar and Nelson
By BC RCMP
Investigators have seized a large quantity of illicit nicotine products as a result of two search warrants.
On September 16, 2026, members of the Nelson RCMP, with assistance from BC Highway Patrol, executed search warrants at two commercial businesses in Castlegar and Nelson as part of an investigation into the sale of contraband nicotine pouches.
During the searches, officers seized illicit nicotine products with an estimated value of approximately $42,000. Investigators believe many of the products were counterfeit and designed to resemble well-known brands.
In Canada, nicotine pouches are regulated by Health Canada as therapeutic smoking cessation aids and are not approved for sale as recreational lifestyle products. Legally authorized products must meet specific nicotine concentration requirements and may only be sold behind pharmacy counters. In addition, fruit- and candy-flavoured nicotine pouches are prohibited in an effort to reduce their appeal to youth.
Nicotine pouch products sold through convenience stores, gas stations, or other retailers without Health Canada authorization are illegal for sale in Canada.
“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 Constable Shaun Kennedy of the Nelson RCMP.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Charges are pending further investigation as well as review and approval by the Public Prosecution Service of Canada.
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