South Australian police have struck a significant blow against organised crime networks, confiscating more than $22 million worth of assets—including $9 million in cash—as part of a major crackdown on illicit tobacco distribution.
The investigation gained momentum on 6 May, when Eyre Western Police stopped a vehicle around midday on the Lincoln Highway near Whyalla. Officers allegedly uncovered a large quantity of illegal tobacco products inside the vehicle.
This led detectives from Operation Eclipse to an industrial warehouse in Salisbury, in Adelaide’s northern suburbs. Police allege the site was being used as a central hub to supply illicit tobacco to retailers across the state.
During the search, police seized more than seven million cigarettes and 3.9 tonnes of loose tobacco, with an estimated street value of over $7 million.
Detective Chief Inspector Brett Featherby said the operation dealt a serious setback to organised crime groups in South Australia. He noted the seizure of products, cash, and other assets would significantly disrupt illegal business operations across the region.
This latest development follows a previous police effort in April that uncovered $1.5 million in illegal tobacco and $444,000 in cash. That operation involved coordinated raids across several locations in the Mid North and Eyre Peninsula between 1 and 3 April. Properties in Port Pirie, Port Augusta, Whyalla, and Port Lincoln were targeted.
Police have emphasised that they are not only focused on those directly handling the illicit goods but also on individuals and businesses facilitating or supporting these activities. Chief Inspector Featherby stated that authorities will use every available legal avenue to seize assets linked to criminal activity.
As part of the broader investigation, two arrests have been made. A 24-year-old man from Prospect was taken into custody in Whyalla and charged with possessing tobacco and e-cigarette products for sale. He has been released on bail and is set to appear in Whyalla Magistrates Court on 22 July.
A separate search of a home in Para Hills led to the arrest of a 51-year-old man. He has also been charged with possession of tobacco products for sale and is scheduled to appear in the Elizabeth Magistrates Court on 17 June.
Police have indicated that further charges may be laid as investigations continue and more evidence is gathered.
Authorities say the crackdown is part of a broader push to dismantle the illicit tobacco trade, which has become a lucrative source of income for organised crime groups. The scale of the seizures and arrests highlights the sophistication and reach of these operations, which often use commercial premises and distribution networks to move large volumes of illegal products throughout the state.
Chief Inspector Featherby underscored the police’s commitment to disrupting these syndicates, adding that stripping them of their profits and infrastructure is a powerful step toward shutting down illegal activity.
The investigation remains ongoing, with law enforcement continuing to pursue leads, gather evidence, and target those at all levels of the illicit trade.
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