Police have targeted tobacco stores with alleged links to organised crime in Melbourne's west as part of a proactive effort to reduce the risk of serious and violent crime in Sunshine.
Sunshine police, working alongside VIPER Taskforce, last week conducted a series of search warrants targeting stores suspected of involvement in the illicit tobacco trade.
Across Victoria, tobacco stores linked to organised crime have repeatedly been the target of arson attacks and other serious criminal activity, placing neighbouring businesses, workers and members of the public at risk.
Legitimate businesses operating nearby are often left to deal with the consequences, including damage, disruption and ongoing safety concerns.
Results from the 29 October operation include:
- Five tobacco stores searched
- 50,949 illicit cigarettes seized
- Four kilograms of illicit loose-leaf tobacco seized
- 593 vapes seized
- $24,000 cash seized
- One imitation firearm seized
- Five people arrested and released pending summons or with official cautions
Victoria Police also utilised new powers under the Tobacco Act 1987, which allow 90-day closure notices to be issued to stores found to be selling illicit tobacco.
The operation forms part of an ongoing statewide effort led by the VIPER Taskforce to disrupt organised crime involvement in the illicit tobacco trade.
Anyone with information about illicit tobacco is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or file a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
Quotes attributable to Acting Inspector Rochelle Keily, Brimbank Local Area Commander:
"This operation was about protecting local businesses, workers and residents from the harm associated with organised crime.
"We've seen illicit tobacco stores become the target of serious arson attacks and other violent incidents, creating unacceptable risks for surrounding traders, workers and local residents.
"By taking action against businesses allegedly linked to the illicit tobacco trade, we're reducing opportunities for further harm and making our community safer as a result.
"Local businesses deserve to operate without fear of criminal activity occurring next door, and that's exactly what this operation was designed to support."
Quotes attributable to Detective Inspector Anthony Gasparini, VIPER Taskforce:
"The illicit tobacco trade continues to provide a lucrative revenue stream for organised crime networks, which are motivated by profit and have little regard for the harm they cause communities.
"Every store we close is another opportunity taken away from organised crime to profit and another step towards preventing serious incidents from occurring.
"VIPER will continue targeting organised crime wherever it operates, with a strong focus on protecting local communities from the harm it causes."
