Traders of illicit tobacco products in regional WA have been put on notice.
The Department of Health this week conducted raids on Mid-West premises suspected of selling from the illegal tobacco market.
Over two days officers seized significant volumes of cigarettes, loose leaf tobacco and vapes from retail premises.
The raids netted:
- 99,420 individual cigarettes
- 37.25 kilograms of loose-leaf tobacco
- 810 vapes
In recognition of the increasing complexity of illegal tobacco investigations and links to organised crime, the Department's investigation capability is increasing.
Proposed changes to legislation will significantly increase powers to tackle the scourge of illicit tobacco and vaping products.
The Department's enforcement actions aim to protect the health and wellbeing of all West Australians in metropolitan and in regional communities.
Shane Giblett, Director of Tobacco and Vape Regulation at WA Department of Health, said the illicit tobacco trade impacts were widespread.
"Tobacco products are harmful to the health of Western Australians and their families," Mr Giblett said.
"In addition, organised crime plays a major role in the distribution of these products, which puts community safety at risk.
"Our enforcement team works closely with the WA Police Force to stop the illegal tobacco trade and ultimately keep Western Australians safe."
The Department continues to build on its intelligence and enforcement capacity, boosting resources on the ground and conducting more inspections across the State.
