Cash and tobacco seized in Operation Eclipse raids

Serious and Organised Crime Branch, members of the Local Service Areas with support of Consumer and Business Services searched 31 premises at Port Pirie, Port Augusta, Whyalla and Port Lincoln between 1 April and 3 April as part of Operation Eclipse.

The locations searched included tobacconists, barber shops, gift shops, mini-marts, commercial storage facilities and residential premises.

The searches resulted in the arrest of a man, 51, of Whyalla Playford for unlawful possession of $225,655 cash.

Investigation is ongoing in relation to other seizures of cash and illicit tobacco.

Operation Eclipse commander Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said the regional seizures had significantly disrupted the activities of syndicates operating in those regional areas and enhanced our knowledge or their business model.

“Organised crime syndicates operating in regional areas will be subject to a whole of SAPOL response to disrupt their criminal activity and financial operations,’’ he said.

“SAPOL will pursue criminal charges when sufficient evidence exists and that includes those who are supporting and enabling that activity and take every opportunity to enforce the full extent of the confiscations legislation to seize assets of those involved.’’

Operation Eclipse has so far resulted in 33 arrests for offences including blackmail, arson, money laundering and serious criminal trespass.

There have been 179 premises searched – 47 residential, 119 businesses and 13 storage facilities – more than $2 million in cash, three firearms and almost $16.2 million in tobacco seized. 
Significantly, there have been 366 calls to Crime Stoppers since October 2 that have resulted in information being provided to police.

Commissioner for Consumer Affairs Brett Humphrey said the partnership between CBS and SAPOL had made a significant impact on the illicit tobacco and vape trade in South Australia.

"Together, we are making inroads into the sale of illicit tobacco and vapes and we are taking this very seriously.

"CBS will continue to work with other agencies focussed on reducing the illicit tobacco trade in South Australia.”

Anyone with any information on criminal activities surrounding the sale of illicit tobacco is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or at www.crimestopperssa.com.au - you can remain anonymous.