Warrumbungle Shire Council took part in a major enforcement operation in Dunedoo yesterday – the culmination of a long-running investigation into reports of local unlawful tobacco sales.
Acting on intelligence of large-scale prohibited tobacco sales, officers from the Council, with support from the NSW Police Force and NSW Health, carried out a coordinated inspection at a business in Bolaro Street on Tuesday.
“During the operation, investigators located a large locked cabinet (pictured, below) hidden at the rear of an adjoining property. When the individual on site refused to open it, investigators forced entry and uncovered a significant quantity of illegal tobacco products, including multiple cartons of cigarettes and bags of ‘chop chop’ tobacco. All seized items are now in the custody of authorities for further investigation,” the Council said in a statement.
“An Emergency Cease Use Order was issued to the employee on site, preventing any further activity at the premises. Serious charges are expected to be laid against both the employee and the business owners in relation to the alleged offences.
“Warrumbungle Shire Council remains committed to working with the NSW Police Force and NSW Health to stamp out the sale of illegal tobacco in the region. The unlawful sale and distribution of prohibited tobacco pose significant risks to community health and undermine legitimate local businesses.”
Anyone with information regarding the illegal sale of tobacco products is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000. All information is treated confidentially.
