Detectives from Horsham Crime Investigation Unit have seized almost 60,000 illicit cigarettes, almost 400 vapes, 10kg of loose leaf tobacco and over $5000 cash as part of an investigation into the alleged sale of illicit tobacco in Victoria.
With assistance from uniform members, three search warrants were executed on Tuesday morning at tobacco stores in Horsham.
Over 42,000 illicit cigarette sticks, sandwich bags filled with 1kg of loose leaf tobacco, over 300 vapes and cash were seized from a Firebrace Street store.
A 36-year-old Black Ridge man in the store at the time was arrested and charged with tobacco related offences under the Customs Act 1901 (Commonwealth).
He was bailed to appear at Horsham Magistrates' Court on 18 December.
Just under 10,000 illicit cigarettes, over 70 vapes, at least 170 vape refills, loose leaf tobacco and approximately $5,000 cash were seized from a Roberts Avenue store.
A 53-year-old Horsham woman inside the store at the time is expected to be charged on summons.
At a second Firebrace Street store, approximately 6,300 sticks of illicit tobacco and almost 10kg of loose leaf tobacco were seized.
A 50-year-old Dimboola woman inside the store at the time is expected to be charged on summons.
The street value of the products seized is approximately $60,000 worth of illicit cigarette sticks, over $27,000 worth of vapes and at least $16,000 worth of loose-leaf tobacco.
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
