A number of Riverland retail outlets have been hit with closure orders, following the discovery of illicit tobacco.
Raids by SA’s illicit tobacco taskforce last week located over 1000 packets of illegal cigarettes, 500 vapes along with 15kg of loose tobacco from six locations.
It’s estimated the seized products had a value of around $70,000.
As a result, SA’s Minister for Consumer and Business Affairs, Andrea Michaels issued 28-day closure orders for three local retailers located in the Berri and Barmera area.
- Smoke Accessories and Gifts, Berri.
- Gifts and Accessories, Berri.
- Smart Smoke, Barmera.
On top of this, 72 hours interim closure orders were issued for further businesses in Renmark, Glossop and Waikerie.
- Shell Get and Go, Glossop.
- Waikerie Tobacconist, Waikerie.
- Mini Supermarket, Renmark.
The Minister said “These six stores have suffered the consequences this week of being involved in this illicit trade and investigations into their actions are continuing.”
“The illicit tobacco taskforce will continue to be out in force, raiding stores and shutting them down across the state.” Said Minister Michaels.
South Australia has the toughest penalties for those caught selling illicit tobacco and vapes, with fines of up to $6.6 million now applicable.
