Australian Border Force (ABF) Investigators have arrested two men following large-scale operational activity throughout Sydney targeting trusted insiders within the cargo supply chain.
The two men are alleged to have been involved in abusing their positions as legitimate delivery drivers to facilitate the importation and distribution of illicit tobacco products.
The men were arrested and charged on 28 August 2023, with both subsequently refused bail to appear before the Downing Centre Court on 13 September 2023.
Following an extensive investigation, officers executed 37 separate search warrants across Silverwater, Hillsdale, Prestons, Botany, Enfield and East Gardens on 28 and 29 August 2023.
During the two-day blitz, ABF efforts resulted in the seizure of 1.5 million illicit cigarette sticks with an evaded duty value of $1,735,254, 1.2 tonnes of molasses tobacco with an evaded duty value of $1,896,230, as well as the seizure of more than $300,000 in cash. A large quantity of electronic devices were also located which will be subject to further investigation.
The following quotes can be attributed to ABF Commander Raef McDonough:
"Criminal syndicates are extremely sophisticated and have the ability to adapt and diversify their business model in attempts to ensure the continuous supply of illicit tobacco.
"These individuals, also known as trusted insiders, abuse the access available to them through their employment, and in turn, compromise supply chain integrity.
"Illicit tobacco profits are often linked to drug trafficking and money laundering, further lining the pockets of criminal syndicates while our communities struggle through cost of living pressures."
A/g Commander McDonough went on to comment that disruption caused by ABF operations such as this continues to have a significant impact by dismantling criminal groups and strengthening the integrity of the supply chain.
"We have seen significant prison sentences handed out in the past 12 months relating to illicit tobacco, and this should serve as a significant red flag to those involved in this type of activity," he said.
