Montreal's mayor said police were doing their jobs and upholding the law when they launched raids against newly opened illegal cannabis stores.
Denis Coderre added opening the stores was a pointless stunt since federal legislation to legalize marijuana is expected in the spring.
Police reported they arrested 10 people Friday in the raids on the cannabis stores that opened one day before by the self-styled "Prince of Pot,'' Marc Emery, and his wife, Jodie.
Emery appeared in court Saturday via videoconference where he was charged with drug trafficking, possession for purposes of trafficking, and conspiracy.
He was released on $5,000 bail and must respect various conditions, including not communicating with his co-accused and not consuming narcotics in Quebec without a prescription.
He can also not be in a place where narcotics are sold in Quebec.
His case retuns to court Febreruary 15th.
According to Coderre, marijuana advocates need to be patient and respect the law until it is changed.
There's word the shops will reopen.