Police seize liquor in the Nass Valley
ACTING ON tips from the public, Lisims/Nass Valley RCMP say they seized eight 750ml bottles of Smirnoff Vodka from a suspected bootlegger during a traffic stop on the Nisga'a Highway just east of Laxgalts'ap yesterday.
The liquor was believed to be en route to Ginglox, the western most of the Nisga'a villages, approximately 75kms from New Aiyansh.
The Ginglox Village Government's social assistance cheques were issued this morning and some residents would have received their provincial child tax benefits today as well. Receipts confirm the liquor was purchased Jan. 18 in Terrace and paid for with cash, consistent with what police have seen in previous investigations.
"We certainly see an increase in bootlegging activity when these cheques are issued in the community," says Sgt. Donovan Tait, the RCMP's detachment commander in the Nass Valley.
"The retail value of one of these bottles is about $25, but they will be sold for more than double that from a bootlegger in Gingolx."
"Again, it is our most vulnerable citizens who are victimized by this illegal activity; our youth, those who are alcohol dependant and those without transportation. Cooperation and information from the public is critical to assist our officers in combating this criminal activity," said Tait.
He said deal with the illegal sale of alcohol in the Nisga'a Nation continues a top priority for the RCMP.
The male suspect was released roadside and the matter remains under investigation.
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