NSW Police Seize About US$1.9 Million in Illegal Tobacco Products, Including 15,000 Vapes

Dec.01

During a recent routine traffic stop, New South Wales police discovered a large quantity of illegal tobacco and vapes hidden inside a rental truck, including approximately 942,000 cigarettes and more than 15,000 e-cigarettes, with an estimated value of nearly AUD 2 million. The 31-year-old driver was arrested at the scene and the case has now entered judicial proceedings.

Key Points

NSW Police intercepted a rental truck during a routine traffic stop on the Pacific Highway and unexpectedly uncovered a large quantity of suspected illegal tobacco and vaping products.
The vehicle contained approximately 942,000 cigarettes, 15,380 vapes, and 10 kg of loose tobacco, with an estimated value of AUD 1.961 million (around USD 1.9 million).
A 31-year-old man was arrested at the scene, and both the vehicle and all goods were seized.
The suspect has been issued a court attendance notice and is scheduled to appear before Kempsey Local Court on 29 January 2026.

2Firsts, December 1, 2025 — According to the NSW Police Force, a man in New South Wales has been arrested for allegedly transporting illegal tobacco and vaping products, with authorities seizing goods valued at roughly USD 1.9 million (AUD 1,961,300) in the state’s northern region.

According to the police statement, at around 8:40 a.m. on November 27, officers conducted a routine traffic stop on a rental truck traveling along the Pacific Highway near Macleay Valley Way. After administering a roadside breath test, police initiated a further search of the vehicle.

During the search, officers uncovered multiple boxes containing a substantial quantity of illegal tobacco and vape products — including approximately 942,040 cigarettes, 15,380 vapes, and 10 kilograms of tobacco. Police estimate the total value of the seized goods at AUD 1,961,300 (around USD 1.9 million).

The truck and all contraband were confiscated, and the 31-year-old driver was arrested at the scene. He has been issued a court attendance notice and is scheduled to appear in Kempsey Local Court on 29 January 2026.

Cover image source: thecooldown

References:

[1] Man charged, $1.9 million worth of illicit tobacco and vapes seized - Kempsey

Also Read:

[1] Australian Border Force Blocks Massive Vape Shipment Following China Intelligence

[2] Australia Leads COP11 Seminars as Exploding Illicit Tobacco Market Raises Questions

[3] South Australia Issues Closure Orders to 100 Stores over Illicit Tobacco and Vapes

[4] NSW Landlords Could Face Jail or $165,000 Fine for Allowing Illegal Vape and Tobacco Sales

[5] Tasmania, Australia Will Introduce New Laws Targeting Illegal Vape and Tobacco Retailers

We welcome news tips, article submissions, interview requests, or comments on this piece.

Please contact us at info@2firsts.com, or reach out to Alan Zhao, CEO of 2Firsts, on LinkedIn

Notice

1. This article is intended solely for professional research purposes related to industry, technology, and policy. Any references to brands or products are made purely for objective description and do not constitute any form of endorsement, recommendation, or promotion by 2Firsts.

2. The use of nicotine-containing products — including, but not limited to, cigarettes, e-cigarettes, nicotine pouchand heated tobacco products — carries significant health risks. Users are responsible for complying with all applicable laws and regulations in their respective jurisdictions.

3. This article is not intended to serve as the basis for any investment decisions or financial advice. 2Firsts assumes no direct or indirect liability for any inaccuracies or errors in the content.

4. Access to this article is strictly prohibited for individuals below the legal age in their jurisdiction.

Copyright

This article is either an original work created by 2Firsts or a reproduction from third-party sources with proper attribution. All copyrights and usage rights belong to 2Firsts or the original content provider. Unauthorized reproduction, distribution, or any other form of unauthorized use by any individual or organization is strictly prohibited. Violators will be held legally accountable.

For copyright-related inquiries, please contact: info@2firsts.com

AI Assistance Disclaimer

This article may have been enhanced using AI tools to improve translation and editorial efficiency. However, due to technical limitations, inaccuracies may occur. Readers are encouraged to refer to the cited sources for the most accurate information.

We welcome any corrections or feedback. Please contact us at: info@2firsts.com

Thai Police Seize 30,000 Illegal Vapes Worth Over US$270,000

According to Thai police, officers seized 30,000 illegal vapes worth over THB 10 million (US$270,000) and arrested two suspects linked to online sales via LINE account “VST Nuan Chan.” Raids were conducted in Bangkok and Samut Prakan, uncovering a main warehouse and residence. Both suspects confessed and face charges under the Product Safety Act and Customs Law for illegal import and sale.

Oct.30 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Switzerland's Geneva to enforce ban on disposable e-cigarettes following court ruling

The Canton of Geneva has begun enforcing its ban on disposable e-cigarettes (“puffs”) after the cantonal court rejected industry appeals to suspend the law. Passed on August 29 by the Grand Council, the ban will now be actively monitored by trade inspectors, while a similar measure is already in force in Valais.

Nov.07 by 2FIRSTS.ai

Germany OLG Cologne: Touchscreen Vape Use Violates Driving “Phone Ban”

Germany’s OLG Cologne ruled that adjusting an e-cigarette touchscreen while driving violates the “phone ban” under road traffic law. The driver, caught changing vape settings on the highway, was fined €150 and received one penalty point, as the court said such actions pose significant distraction risks.

Oct.27 by 2FIRSTS.ai

UK Advocacy Groups Launch "20IsPlenty" Campaign for Nicotine Pouch Strength Limit of 20mg

UK harm reduction groups led by We Vape have launched the “20IsPlenty” campaign calling for a 20mg nicotine pouch cap, a ban on youth advertising, and evidence-based regulation. The initiative coincides with the Tobacco and Vapes Bill debate and aims to ensure pouches remain accessible as safer alternatives for smokers.