Australian Police Seize $200,000 Worth of Illegal Tobacco and Vapes in Crackdown Targeting Youth Market

Key Points

• Seized items: About AUD 300,000 in illegal tobacco and vapes, plus AUD 50,000 in cash
• Enforcement period: August 28–31, targeting multiple tobacconist shops in Moree
• Police statement: Operation significantly disrupted illegal trade and curbed youth vaping access
• Political response: Local MP hailed the outcome as “a huge win for Moree”
• Related background: Concurrent incidents in Tamworth, including an assault and the ongoing Operation Soteria

2Firsts, September 1, 2025 — New South Wales police conducted a three-day enforcement operation in Moree, seizing around AUD 300,000 (USD 197,000) worth of illegal tobacco and e-cigarettes, along with AUD 50,000 (USD 33,000) in cash.

Inspector Dwayne De Vries of the New England Police District said the operation, carried out between August 28 and 31, involved targeted raids on several tobacconist premises. During one raid on Friday alone, police confiscated about AUD 250,000 worth of illegal products and AUD 30,000 in cash.

“This operation focused on the unlawful procurement and sale of e-cigarettes, resulting in the seizure of approximately AUD 300,000 worth of illegal products and AUD 50,000 in cash,” said Inspector De Vries. He stressed that the outcome represented a significant disruption to illegal business activity, particularly in preventing young people from gaining access to vapes.

Brendan Moylan, Member for Northern Tablelands, welcomed the results, calling the operation a “huge win for Moree” and thanking police for their efforts in safeguarding the community and protecting youth.

Police said investigations are ongoing, with legal proceedings expected soon.

Meanwhile, Tamworth experienced multiple incidents during the same period, including a break-in and assault case, as well as intensified enforcement under Operation Soteria. The targeted campaign focused on burglary, vehicle theft, and “post-and-boast” crimes shared on social media. Thirteen people now face more than 30 charges as part of the crackdown.