Police have seized over $2.38 million worth of illicit tobacco and $391,000 in cash in raids last week on premises in regional and metropolitan South Australia.
Members from Serious and Organised Crime Branch, Financial and Cybercrime Investigation Branch and Whyalla searched fourteen premises in metropolitan and regional areas between 24 and 27 February as part of Operation Eclipse investigations.
The locations searched included tobacconists, candy and gift shops, mini marts, commercial storage facilities, vehicles and residential premises.
In searches of commercial storage facilities at Burton and Parafield Gardens, four large shipping containers containing illicit tobacco was located. The value of the tobacco located at these properties was approximately $2 million dollars. Police are aware that these storage facilities are being used to store tobacco, which is then used to supply illicit retail outlets.
Two vehicle stops were also conducted at Port Wakefield and Salisbury resulting in illegal tobacco and cash being seized. These searches resulted in the largest seizure of illicit tobacco to date in South Australia. Investigations into the seizures are ongoing.
Operation Eclipse commander Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said the cash seizures demonstrates the significant amount of money being generated from the illicit tobacco market.
“We seek to continue to disrupt their financial operations and criminal activity and pursue criminal charges where evidence exists”
“SA Police will continue to investigate organised crime syndicates operating statewide through a whole of SA Police response. We will also target people supporting them as they evolve to prevent and suppress serious criminal activity and ensure community safety”
Operations Eclipse has now searched a total of 136 premises and seized approximately $12.5 million in illicit tobacco products.
Anyone with any information on criminal activities surrounding the sale of illicit tobacco is urged to call Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit crimstopperssa.com.au, you can remain anonymous.
