A government press event aiming to showcase enforcement officers closing down an illegal tobacco shop in Hindmarsh took an unexpected turn when staff pre-emptively locked the premises before officials could arrive.
The incident occurred in the presence of Consumer and Business Affairs Minister Andrea Michaels, who had intended to deliver an update on the government’s crackdown on the illegal tobacco and vape trade while witnessing the closure of an unlicensed Hindmarsh business.
Unfortunately, the plan derailed as Tobacconists Accessories & Gifts, located on Port Road, locked its doors shortly before 11am.
Witnesses from The Advertiser observed two compliance officers exiting their vehicle and walking towards the tobacco shop, only to find both the front entrance and a side gate securely locked.
Unable to enter, the inspectors affixed an ‘Interim Closure Order’ to the shop’s front door and window and slipped additional documentation under the locked entrance. Despite not being able to serve the paperwork in person, the posting of the notice was enough to enforce the shop’s closure for a 72-hour period. Minister Michaels praised the effectiveness of the operation despite the hiccup.
“This should serve as a clear warning to the operators of this store. It’s time to shut it down,” she stated.
Ms Michaels also noted the surprising number of people attempting to access the store during the media event, highlighting its apparent popularity.
“In just a short time, I’ve seen multiple people trying to enter this shop,” she remarked. “I’m surprised by how busy it is, but it’s obviously in a prominent location with significant foot traffic. I’m pleased that we’ve taken swift action to close one of the key offenders.”
The Hindmarsh store, Tobacconists Accessories & Gifts, was targeted due to its history of non-compliance. Previous raids by Consumer and Business Services (CBS) and South Australian Police uncovered nearly 10,000 illicit cigarettes, 2,000 cigarette tubes, and half a kilogram of loose tobacco at the premises.
This latest enforcement action reflects Minister Michaels’ new authority to impose immediate closures on businesses suspected of dealing in illegal tobacco and vape products. Under these powers, a closure order can last for 72 hours, during which the minister may seek an extended shutdown of up to six months through the Adelaide Magistrates Court.
Non-compliance with the closure orders carries significant penalties. Businesses could face fines of up to $1.1 million, while individuals may be fined up to $700,000.
Since the introduction of these laws last Friday, Ms Michaels has already issued immediate closure orders against four other tobacco stores with histories of repeated violations.
“The illicit tobacco trade poses a serious threat to our community,” Ms Michaels said, reiterating the government’s commitment to swift and decisive action. “We will not allow these illegal operations to continue. They endanger legitimate neighbouring businesses and are often linked to organised crime.
“Our message is clear: we will raid these stores, remove these harmful products from circulation, and ensure these businesses are permanently shut down.”
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