A New Zealand woman, age 29, was charged on Wednesday after the execution of two search warrants in Innisfail discovered more than 150 kg of illegal tobacco and cigarettes (January 18).
The search warrants were executed in response to various community complaints.
In a hotel room on Owen Street, police reportedly discovered over 87 kilogrammes of cigarettes in counterfeit packaging (65,600 individual cigarettes), illegally imported vaping items, and an amount of cash.
The police will also allege that around 70 kg of loose tobacco and cigarettes packaged in counterfeit cartons and non-compliant packaging were discovered at a store on Ernest Street.
The woman has been charged with one count of each of the following: possession of tobacco (100 kg or more), buying or possessing S4 or S8 medications or dangerous poisons, selling or supplying tobacco products in non-compliant retail packaging, and possession of contaminated property.
She is scheduled to appear on February 27 before the Innisfail Magistrates Court.
The investigation continues.
Jason Chetham, acting detective inspector for the Far North District, said that imported vapes and illegal tobacco products often include hazardous substances that are forbidden in Australia and globally.
“These products can have serious health implications for innocent members of the public who purchase them trusting they are compliant,” he said.
“We urge anyone with information in relation to the possession of illicit tobacco or non-compliant products to contact police.”
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