Service stations nationwide raided over illegal tobacco, vapes

Dozens of service stations nationwide have been targeted in a multi-agency campaign against suspected criminal activity, with a focus on the alleged sale of illegal tobacco products and vapes. The Australian Border Force (ABF) initiated the coordinated blitz, deploying nearly 300 personnel across all states and territories, except Tasmania and the Northern Territory.

Fifteen federal and state agencies, including NSW Police, the Australian Federal Police (AFP) and the Australian Criminal Intelligence Commission, collaborated under the Illicit Tobacco National Disruption Group (NDG).

Footage from one raid showed officers entering a service station, seizing imported tobacco boxes and cash. ABF Assistant Commissioner Customs Compliance and Enforcement Tony Smith emphasized the shared goal of disrupting an evolving illegal tobacco trade, noting that criminal actors are diversifying their business models by moving away from traditional tobacconists to convenience stores, milk bars, and service stations.

AFP Superintendent Crime Command Jim Rowe stated that intelligence suggested the illegal tobacco trade was linked to organised crime, as these groups use illicit tobacco sales to fund additional criminal activities. NSW Health Minister Ryan Park highlighted that NSW Health was working closely with federal enforcement agencies to share intelligence on individuals engaged in illegal activities.

The ABF confirmed that the operation remains active as agencies assess evidence from the raids, with some targeted service stations potentially closing temporarily. Metro Petroleum, a company with 350 stores across Australia, expressed its zero-tolerance policy towards illicit tobacco and vaping products. The company stated that it would continue to cooperate with authorities, terminate lease arrangements with the implicated operators, and report the matter to relevant authorities.

Metro Petroleum clarified that it does not operate, staff, or manage the retail businesses, which are run by independent operators responsible for adhering to all laws regarding sales at their sites.