Detectives from Geelong Crime Investigation Unit have arrested four people after more than $400,000 worth of illicit tobacco was seized in Geelong and Corio.
On Wednesday 18 September, police executed six search warrants at shops on Kosciusko & Detroit Avenue, Corio, Separation Street, Bell Park, Peter Street, Grovedale, Wilsons Road, Whittington and Church Street, Herne Hill where illegal tobacco was allegedly being sold. One of these shops had previously been targeted for an attempted arson in 2023.
An approximate total of 323,120 sticks of illicit tobacco, 23,968 vapes, 18.5 kg of loose tobacco and $13,000 was seized as part of the investigation.
Four people were arrested including:
• A 50-year-old Lara woman will be charged on summons with one count of possess tobacco products with intent of defrauding the revenue, and deal with property suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
• A 58-year-old Corio woman will be charged on summons with one count of possess tobacco products with intent of defrauding the revenue, and deal with property suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
• A 41-year-old Tarneit man will be charged on summons with one count of possess tobacco products with intent of defrauding the revenue and deal with property suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
• A 19-year-old Hoppers Crossing woman will be charged on summons with one count of possess tobacco products with intent of defrauding the revenue and deal with property suspected to be the proceeds of crime.
The investigation remains ongoing, and several people will be spoken to in due course.
Anyone with information on illicit tobacco activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential report online at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
