HomeBusinessOperation Eclipse Targets Illicit Tobacco Trade in South Australia

Operation Eclipse Targets Illicit Tobacco Trade in South Australia

Key Arrests and Major Seizures in Ongoing Investigation

Detectives from the South Australian Police (SAPOL) Serious and Organised Crime Branch have launched Operation Eclipse, targeting criminal networks involved in the trade of illicit tobacco and a recent surge of arson attacks. This morning, a series of searches were conducted at a private residence, multiple businesses, and a storage facility as part of this operation.

Shortly after 8 AM, authorities arrested a 34-year-old man at an address in Blair Athol. Police allege that he is a significant figure in the illegal activities occurring in South Australia.

The man faces four counts of money laundering, with each charge carrying a maximum penalty of 20 years in prison. He has been refused bail and is set to appear in Port Adelaide Magistrates Court on October 17.

In addition to the arrest, detectives targeted three business premises in Hendon, Queenstown, and Rosewater linked to the suspect.

A search at a storage facility in Salisbury Downs yielded significant quantities of loose tobacco, packaged cigarettes, and vapes, valued at $358,955. Moreover, detectives seized documents, electronic devices, CCTV footage, and a hard drive during the searches.

Intelligence gathered from Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and community tips has revealed over 200 stores suspected of selling illicit tobacco products. The public’s purchase of these illegal items is reportedly supporting organized crime syndicates driving the ongoing criminal activity.

Police suspect that three major crime syndicates are competing for control over the illicit tobacco market, with two linked to interstate operations aiming to expand into South Australia.

Source police.sa.gov.au

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