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 łthe 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.