Police have uncovered a mega stash of illegal tobacco at a shop in Adelaide as detectives hone in on the black market’s supply.Â
The authorities discovered a seizure worth more than $450,000 concealed in a shed on the Welland premises, which was one of the five supply houses revealed by Operation Eclipse as having ties to South Australia’s illegal tobacco battles.
Investigations suggest that this stash served as a supply hub for other illicit retail outlets across the Western suburbs.
“Maintaining the pressure is crucial as we aim to prevent the reoccurrence of these offenses to safeguard the community,” emphasized Brett Featherby from SA Police.
The bust was part of a blitz on Wednesday.
Raids on 15 businesses in Adelaide led to the confiscation of illicit tobacco valued at $1 million, alongside $8000 in cash. The businesses targeted included tobacconists, candy and gift shops, as well as small supermarkets.
A 41-year-old Gawler man was also arrested for arson.
Police say a total of 22 people have now been arrested with links to the black market, while $7.8 million worth of tobacco has been seized.
