Full Breakdown
Major Crackdown on Illegal Tobacco and Vaping Products in Australia
9/1/2025, 8:11:00 PM
Record Seizures in Queensland
In a significant operation, Australian Border Force (ABF) and Queensland Police have seized over $70 million worth of illegal tobacco and vaping products. This operation, named Xray Modred, commenced in February 2025 to investigate suspected money laundering linked to an organized crime syndicate. The investigation led to searches of 17 storage facilities in Brisbane, where authorities uncovered more than 30 million illegal cigarettes, over 395,000 vapes, and 4,650 kg of tobacco. Concurrently, raids on eight tobacconists and six residences resulted in the seizure of an additional 450,000 illegal cigarettes, over 6,000 vapes, 500 kg of tobacco, and $1 million in cash. The total estimated value of the seized items is over $53.8 million.
Ongoing Investigations and Community Impact
The ABF has indicated that the criminal network operates multiple tobacco retail outlets across Australia, selling illicit products. The recent seizures are part of a broader effort to disrupt illegal tobacco trade, which poses health risks and undermines legitimate businesses. Queensland's Chief Health Officer, Associate Professor Catherine McDougall, emphasized the growing challenge of off-site bulk storage of illicit products, highlighting the need for robust law enforcement collaboration.
Local Operations in Moree
In a separate operation in Moree, New England Police seized approximately $300,000 worth of illegal cigarettes and vapes, along with $50,000 in cash. This operation, conducted from August 28 to August 31, targeted unlawful sales of electronic cigarettes. Inspector Dwayne De Vries noted that these inspections significantly disrupted illegal activities in the area, particularly concerning youth access to vapes.
Legislative Developments in New South Wales
In response to the rising issue of illicit tobacco and vaping products, the New South Wales (NSW) Government has initiated consultations to establish potential offences for landlords who knowingly lease premises to retailers selling illegal products. This initiative is part of a broader strategy to strengthen tobacco regulation, including the introduction of new penalties and closure orders for businesses involved in the illicit trade. Minister for Health Ryan Park acknowledged the need to address landlords who facilitate illegal sales, stating, “If there’s something we can do about that, I don’t want to leave a stone unturned.”
Criticism and Opposition
Despite these efforts, critics argue that enforcement measures may not be sufficient to tackle the scale of the illicit trade. Tax Justice South Africa has reported that the country loses R250 million daily to illicit trade, calling for urgent action to address the crisis. The organization highlighted the need for a comprehensive approach to combat the growing shadow economy, which includes illegal tobacco sales.
Conclusion
The recent operations in Queensland and Moree, along with legislative initiatives in NSW, represent a concerted effort by Australian authorities to combat the illicit tobacco and vaping market. As investigations continue, the focus remains on dismantling the criminal networks that profit at the expense of public health and safety.
