Malinauskas Government Cracks Down on Illicit Tobacco Market with Operation Eclipse

The Malinauskas Labor Government is ramping up its efforts to combat the illicit tobacco trade, with nearly $1 million worth of illegal products seized in just two weeks. A joint operation by South Australia Police (SAPOL) and Consumer and Business Services (CBS) is targeting the organized crime networks profiting from these products, with the government determined to bring these operations to a halt.

Operation Eclipse Targets Criminal Networks

Operation Eclipse, launched by SAPOL, focuses on not only seizing illicit tobacco but also investigating the violent arson attacks tied to this illegal trade. So far, 11 arson incidents have been linked to those involved in the illicit sale of tobacco products.

• Seizures in the past two weeks:
  • CBS: $630,000 in illicit products
  • SAPOL: $300,000 in tobacco and vapes

The investigations have now been handed over to CBS, which continues enforcement efforts, working in collaboration with SAPOL and other law enforcement agencies such as Victoria Police.

Millions in Seizures and a Tougher Legislative Approach

Since the start of the financial year on July 1, nearly $2 million worth of illegal tobacco and vaping products have been taken off the streets. This includes a staggering 1.2 million cigarettes, almost a tonne of tobacco, over 300 kg of shisha, and nearly 15,000 vapes.

The Malinauskas Government has also introduced tougher penalties to deter the sale of illegal tobacco and vapes. These include:

• Fines: Up to $1.5 million for violations involving vapes or tobacco sales.
• Business shutdowns: New legislation grants the Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs authority to temporarily close businesses suspected of selling illicit products.
  • Initial shutdown period: 72 hours
  • Extended closure period: Up to six months with Magistrate approval
• Individual penalties: Fines of up to $700,000 for violators.
• Business penalties: Fines of up to $1.1 million for non-compliance with closure orders.

Fighting Organized Crime Behind the Illicit Trade

The government estimates that organized crime groups control approximately 75% of Australia’s illegal tobacco market. The newly formed $16 million taskforce within CBS, which began operations on July 1, is central to tackling this criminal enterprise.

The taskforce’s goal is to disrupt these networks and prevent further violence and crime associated with the sale of illicit tobacco and vapes. Intelligence sharing between SAPOL and CBS, along with partnerships with law enforcement in other states, is vital to this effort.

Public Encouraged to Report Illegal Dealers

The Malinauskas Government is urging the public to report any suspected illegal sales of tobacco or vapes. Reports can be made directly to Consumer and Business Services via their official website.

• To report illegal tobacco or vape dealers: Visit www.cbs.sa.gov.au/tobacco

With the financial and legislative resources now in place, the Malinauskas Government is determined to eradicate the illicit tobacco trade and protect communities from the violence and crime it fuels.