An RCMP Roving Traffic Unit seized a large quantity of contraband cigarettes on Highway 1 eight kilometres east of Deacon's Corner on Wednesday.

Police say at approximately 4:20 p.m. Wednesday afternoon the RCMP Roving Traffic Unit conducted a traffic stop on a westbound vehicle. A search of the vehicle uncovered two 50 carton cases as well as 23 individual cartons of cigarettes which were destined for resale.

RCMP arrested the two male occupants of the vehicle, a 47-year-old, and a 44-year-old, both from Winnipeg. The two face charges under the Criminal Code of Canada and the Manitoba Tobacco Tax Act and will appear in court on May 18th in Winnipeg. If the men are convicted, they could face fines in excess of $21,000.

RCMP continue to investigate alongside Manitoba Finance.