More than $468,000 in cash and assets has been seized from illegal tobacco operators across South East Queensland in a series of raids.
The raids were conducted by the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) on 17 businesses due to unpaid fines and penalties now totalling $5.4 million, targeting more than 20 stores in areas including Capalaba, Deagon, West End, Ipswich, Calamvale, Helensvale and Paradise Point. Over 1,000 enforcement orders were issued during the operation.
The enforcement team also confiscated a Mercedes AMG valued at nearly $200,000 and a $50,000 SUV. In some cases, traders attempted to hide cash behind false walls or operated secret tobacco shops within their stores.
Kim Easton, SPER Director, said illegal traders would face further action where they chose not to pay their debts.
“Enforcement officers are carrying out seizure operations across South East Queensland against illegal tobacco operators to recover the debts they owe. We’ve caught several of these operators attempting to conceal assets, hiding cash in secret rooms and behind fake walls.
“Our officers will continue to ensure these debtors face consequences by seizing their cash and other property until these debts are paid.”
Treasurer David Janetzki said the Crisafulli Government is determined to hit these illegal traders where it hurts, disrupt their cash flow and seize their cash and property.
“The sale of illegal tobacco and vapes happened right under Labor’s nose but we’ll continue to come down hard on those breaking the law and ensure they’re held accountable.
“Several of these illegal operators have closed their doors for good because of these enforcement actions, so we’ll continue to support SPER and other agencies so they can use their full powers under the law to prevent chop shops from selling illegal tobacco and vapes, particularly to young Queenslanders.”
This latest action follows Operation Appaloosa in March, led by Queensland Health, which seized 19 million illicit cigarettes, 76,000 vapes and 3.6 tonnes of loose tobacco, with an estimated street value of $20.8 million.
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