General News
21 February, 2025
Illicit tobacco seized in Horsham store raid
Police executed a warrent at Firebrace Street store on Monday, 17 February, seizing over 12,000 illicit cigarette sticks, 2.5 kilogram of loose-leaf tobacco, 135 e-cigarettes and approximately $10,000 in cash.
Police executed a warrent at Firebrace Street store on Monday, 17 February, seizing over 12,000 illicit cigarette sticks, 2.5 kilogram of loose-leaf tobacco, 135 e-cigarettes and approximately $10,000 in cash.
Officers arrested a 23-year-old Stawell woman working at the store and charged her with multiple tobacco-related offences, including possessing illicit tobacco with intent to defraud revenue and dealing with proceeds of crime.
She was bailed to appear at Horsham Magistrates’ Court on March 17.
Detectives allege the store is linked to an organised crime syndicate trafficking illicit tobacco.
In August last year, police seized 42,000 illicit cigarettes, loose tobacco and over 300 vapes from the same business, later charging a 36-year-old Black Ridge man.
The investigation reamins ongoing.
Detective Inspector Craig Darlow from VIPER Taskforce warned that these syndicates exploit workers to run illegal operations and urged the public to avoid purchasing illicit tobacco.