General News
3 September, 2024
More raided as tobacco war heats up
Last week’s tobacco store raids in Horsham were among a growing number in relation to the illicit cigarette and vapes trade that is sweeping Victoria.
Officers from Taskforce Lunar have arrested almost 80 people involved in serious and violent offending linked to the sale of illicit tobacco since the dedicated squad was set up last October.
Arsonists and ram raiders also have struck at dozens of tobacco stores during that period, firstly in Melbourne but now spreading into regional Victoria.
“The estimated cost of the damage from these arson attacks is well and truly above a million dollars,” Taskforce Lunar Detective Inspector Graham Banks said.
“The reckless nature of these fires poses a significant risk to the life and property of innocent parties and that is completely unacceptable.
“While we have arrested a number of people already, we will relentlessly keep working our way up until we get all the way to the top of these organised crime groups.”
Horsham police seized about $60,000 worth of illicit cigarettes, over $27,000 worth of vapes and at least $16,000 worth of loose-leaf tobacco in morning raids on three tobacco stores last Tuesday, in Firebrace Street and Roberts Avenue.
Anyone with information on illegal activity related to illicit tobacco is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or www.crimestoppersvic.com.au