General News
23 April, 2025
EXCLUSIVE: Illicit smokes, vapes seized during tobacco raids
Queensland Health's "Flying Squad" seized 58,344 illicit cigarettes during raids on four Mount Isa businesses.
Four Mount Isa businesses are being investigated after thousands of illegal items, including vapes, drug utensils and illicit tobacco, were allegedly seized in raids.
Queensland Health has revealed its centralised compliance team, dubbed “the Flying Squad”, conducted spot checks at four tobacco retailers on April 14 as part of ongoing investigations into the supply of illegal vaping and tobacco products. Queensland Police Service was not in attendance.
It is alleged that goods seized included 1160 vapes, 58,344 illicit cigarettes, 3.3kg of loose tobacco, 1200 nicotine pouches, 38 bongs and 399 ice pipes.
“The compliance team located and seized illicit tobacco and vape products at two of the four businesses,” a Queensland Health spokesperson said.
“One further business did not stock illicit tobacco or vapes but was found to be supplying other prohibited products under the Act (ice pipes), which were also seized.”
The Queensland Health spokesperson said investigations were continuing into the Mount Isa retail outlets, which may lead to significant penalties being issued.
“Changes made under the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products and Other Legislation Amendment Regulation 2025 earlier this month has seen the commencement of significantly larger on-the-spot fines. This includes businesses facing fines of up to $161,300 for the supply of illicit tobacco, vaping goods and nicotine pouches,” they said.
“Our strict illicit tobacco laws, backed by harsh penalties and enforcement action, are helping to effectively stop the sale of millions of illegal tobacco and vaping products throughout the state.”
Some of the businesses were closed last week following the raids, but have since re-opened.