Officers from the State Penalties Enforcement Registry (SPER) have seized hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash as Queensland continues its crackdown on illegal tobacco traders in a series of targeted raids.
SPER officers seized $468,000 in cash and other assets from illegal tobacco traders, targeting more than 20 stores across south east Queensland as part of enforcement operations.
Warrants were executed at properties in Capalaba, Deagon, West End, Ipswich, Calamvale, Helensvale and Paradise Point, with SPER officers issuing more than 1,000 enforcement orders to operators refusing to pay their fines.
During the raids, one illegal trader was caught attempting to hide cash behind a false wall at the back of their store, while another was operating a hidden tobacco shop at the rear of their retail store.
SPER Director, Kim Easton 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,” Mr Easton said.
“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.”
In addition to the cash seized, officers also impounded a Mercedes AMG valued at almost $200,000 and a $50,000 SUV owned by company directors.
SPER officers will continue to work closely with Queensland Health and Queensland Police to plan and execute raids and seizure operations.
This latest enforcement action follows the Queensland Health-led Operation Appaloosa in March, where more than 76,000 vapes, 19 million illicit cigarettes and 3.6 tonnes of loose illicit tobacco were seized, with a combined estimated street value of $20.8 million.
Treasurer, David Janetzki said the Government made no apologies for targeting illicit tobacco operators across the State.
“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,” Mr 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.
“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,” he said.
