Hundreds of thousands of dollars in cash has been seized from illegal tobacco traders across South East Queensland.
Officers from the State Penalties Enforcement Registry executed raids at 20 tobacconists, including in Helensvale and Paradise Point on the Gold Coast.
The targeted raids are part of a major State Government crackdown on illegal tobacco operators who have refused to pay their fines.
During the raids, one illegal trader was apparently 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.
All up, SPER officers seized $468,000 in cash and also impounded a Mercedes AMG valued at almost $200,000 and a $50,000 SUV owned by company directors.
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.”
Treasurer David Janetzki said the Crisafulli 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.”
