Tobacco shops raided during Operation Eclipse

The raids were conducted on Thursday 7 November by police from the Serious and Organised Crime Branch, Major Crime Investigation Branch, Financial and Cybercrime Investigation Branch, Public Protection Branch and officers from the four metropolitan policing districts.

SAPOL was supported by officers from Consumer and Business Services.

The aim of the comprehensive searches was to support CBS officers who have responsibility for the regulation of tobacco in SA and in some instances to facilitate ongoing investigations into serious criminal offending including arson, extortion and money laundering associated with illicit tobacco sales.

The 17 retail outlets searched included tobacconists, delicatessens and candy and gift shops. One residential premises was also searched.

Of the 17 retail premises searched only one was licenced. Illicit tobacco was located at each of the premises and seized.

As a result of the searches detectives arrested a man, 24, who has been charged with money laundering. He will appear in Christies Beach Magistrates Court on December 20.

The searches also resulted in the seizure of 484 cartons of cigarettes, 58 boxes of cigarettes, 2,745 packets of cigarettes, 347 pouches of loose tobacco, 7,100 tobacco tubes, a quantity of loose cigarettes, vapes and $19,585 in cash.

The estimated value of the seized products is more than $250,000.

Operation Eclipse tactical commander Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said proactive action would continue to disrupt those behind illicit tobacco sales and make SA a hostile environment for their activities.

“SAPOL will continue to have a whole of organisation response to target the syndicates and disrupt their financial operations and associated criminal activity,’’ he said.

“We will pursue criminal charges against those involved when sufficient evidence is available and that includes against those who are supporting or enabling that criminal activity.’’

Det. Chief Insp. Featherby appealed for anyone with information on those involved in the illicit tobacco trade in SA or information on location where illicit tobacco is being stored to contact police.

Operation Eclipse has so far resulted in 17 arrests for offences including money laundering, blackmail, serious criminal trespass and arson, 49 searches on residential and business premises, the seizure of three firearms, almost $900,000 in cash, almost $4 million in tobacco products and six vehicles for confiscation.

Anyone with information is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or online at www.crimestopperssa.com.au