MONTREAL - Montreal police are investigating an alleged contraband alcohol
ring running through at least one synagogue in the city, QMI Agency has
learned.
Wine is often part of religious ceremonies, but police say it wasn't the
only thing found during a December raid. Peach schnapps, banana liquor and
other types of spirits were also seized.
"In this case, we're not talking about a few bottles, but a load containing
a hundred cases," said Insp. Bernard Lamothe, head of the organized crime
investigations division with the SPVM.
"It's not the same thing."
Police hope to uncover an entire illegal distribution network for wine and
various other types of alcohol.
Montreal police (SPVM) investigators seized 891 litres of contraband in
front of a Lajoie Street synagogue on Dec. 17. They are now attempting to
track down providers, distributors, transporters and importers.
In Quebec, all religious communities must buy their service wines Societe
des Alcools de Quebec. But members of three synagogues have told police
they've purchased theirs in Ontario because “the wine sold at the SAQ
doesn't suit them,” said Lamothe.
In Ontario, wine can be purchased at the LCBO, a province-run reseller, as
well as suppliers who are authorized to sell alcohol strictly for religious
purposes.
The SPVM has sought the opinion of the , the municipal courts and the City
of Montreal's legal department and all three have told police it is against
Quebec's laws for the synagogues to buy their wine in Ontario.
Lamothe said criminal charges may be considered once police complete their
Investigation.
