Last week detectives seized significant quantities of illicit tobacco from a storage facility in Craigieburn as part of an investigation into an organised crime syndicate with involvement in the illicit tobacco market.
The warrant was executed at the Hume Highway facility on the morning of Thursday, December 5.
Detectives allegedly located over 250,000 illicit cigarettes, approximately 1020kg of loose leaf tobacco, and 70 vapes.
In total, the illicit tobacco is believed to have an excise avoidance of about $2.5 million.
The warrant was executed as part of a broader ongoing investigation into the organised crime syndicate, which is linked to a person currently based overseas.
The investigation remains ongoing.
Victoria Police says it has identified a number of state, national and global organised crime syndicates involved in the illicit tobacco conflict.
These syndicates are comprised of personnel from Middle Eastern organised crime groups and outlaw motorcycle gangs who are then engaging local networked youth and youth gangs to carry out the offending.
Investigators continue to appeal to anyone, especially store owners and staff, who have information about these incidents and who is responsible to come forward.
Anyone with information about these incidents or with further information about serious and organised crime linked to the illicit tobacco trade can contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or submit a confidential crime report at www.crimestoppersvic.com.au
