The South Australian Government is urging residents to report tobacco shops selling illicit tobacco and vapes to Consumer and Business Services (CBS).
There are an estimated 200 tobacco stores operating illegally throughout the state selling tobacco and vapes without a licence, with most being imported from overseas.
Andrea Michaels, Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, said the government is taking the threat posed by the illicit tobacco industry extremely seriously and is encouraging people to report illegal tobacco stores to CBS.
“We are not going to allow these illegal shops to operate in our community. We have all seen the danger they bring including to innocent neighbouring businesses.
“It is increasingly organised crime behind these illegal tobacco shops and we are going to continue to raid these businesses, get these products off the streets and shut these stores down.”
Australian Border Force estimates that 75 per cent of the illegal tobacco market in Australia is controlled by organised crime.
The SA Government has the power to close down illicit tobacco stores for up to 72 hours, which can be extended up to six months with a long-term closure order approved by a magistrate. It has also introduced new penalties of up to $1.5 million.
More than 800 reports have been received to CBS since 1 July and the Government is encouraging people to continue to report so they can raid these businesses and shut them down.
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