Operation Chokes Illicit Tobacco Trade, Protecting Tasmania’s Health

A joint operation by the Department of Health’s Tobacco Control Team and Tasmania Police has resulted in the seizure of a significant shipment of illicit tobacco and vaping products. The coordinated effort led to the confiscation of approximately 510 kilograms of ‘chop chop’ tobacco and 5,840 vapes, with an estimated street value of $860,000.

Dale Webster, Secretary of the Department of Health, highlighted the importance of inter-agency partnerships in combating the illegal trade of these products.

“Working in partnership with other agencies, we are committed to detecting, deterring, and disrupting the illegal trade of tobacco and vaping products across Tasmania,” said Webster.

This marks the second major seizure of its kind this year, bringing the total street value of seizures in 2025 to over $4 million.

The Department noted that Tasmania’s smoking rates remain higher than the national average, making the interruption of this illicit trade a crucial step in improving public health.

The public is encouraged to report any information regarding the import or sale of illicit tobacco or vapes to the Department of Health or Tasmania Police.

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