RCMP breaks up group that smuggles illegal smokes to N.S. from Quebec

<p>HALIFAX – A seven-month RCMP investigation has led to the breakup of a group accused of transporting illegal cigarettes from Quebec to Nova Scotia.</p> <p>The Mounties say about 700,000 cigarettes, about a kilogram of marijuana, six vehicles and a quantity of cash were seized recently and six men arrested.</p> <p>Five of the six men are from the Halifax area while the sixth is from Quebec.</p> <p>Yahya Hamouche, 21, of Laval, Que., pleaded guilty last week to tobacco-related charges and was fined $450,000.</p> <p>The others are to appear in court on Sept. 20 on numerous charges.</p>