Police believe they have smashed a $30 million illegal tobacco syndicate after they arrested and charged eight people across Victoria today.
One of the alleged kingpins, 25-year-old Nazir Haddara, was arrested at Melbourne Airport this morning moments before boarding a flight to Dubai.
Haddara, three other men and one woman were charged with directing the activities of a criminal organisation, along with illegal tobacco and e-cigarette offences.
“Just coincidentally … on the same day we were executing these warrants he was at the airport about to fly out,” Victoria Police Crime Command Assistant Commissioner Martin O’Brien said.
READ MORE: Cocktail of drugs in Liam Payne’s system when he died
Police allege the syndicate was involved in running and employing staff at illegal tobacco stores disguised as gift and convenience stores.
“These shops were set up under the guise of confectionery and gift stores but ultimately [were] set up to sell illicit tobacco,” O’Brien said.
Investigators embarked on raids at industrial and residential properties, including three homes in Hoppers Crossing, where they seized a Lamborghini Coupe, a Range Rover and more than $75,000 in cash.
Police also seized 600,000 cigarettes and 75 kilograms of loose tobacco, along with utes and vans allegedly used in the distribution of tobacco.
Raids were also carried out at tobacco stores across the state, including in Werribee, Dallas, Kensington and Boronia as well as shops in Bell Park and Grovedale.
READ MORE: Man caught in middle of Sydney police pursuit dies
“This goes to the very heart of the organisation of the criminal network,” O’Brien said.
It’s the biggest breakthrough yet in the ongoing turf wars raging across the city, but police warn it is not over.
It also comes as fires continue to plague tobacconists, with blazes burning through stores Frankston and Thornbury overnight.
“The message I want to send is we’re in for the long game,” O’Brien said.
Police believe Middle Eastern organised crime groups and bikie groups are engaging youth gangs to carry out the illicit tobacco conflict.
“These were significant players who we believe were directing the activity of a criminal organisation, turning a huge profit at the expense of others,” O’Brien said.
links to content on ABC
9News
