By Sumeyya Ilanbey
Illegal tobacco valued at $1.5 million, a loaded firearm and ammunition have been seized from a Pentland Hills property.
Victoria Police and Australian Taxation Office officials last week visited the property and found about four acres of illegal tobacco plants.
The warrant followed similar searches on New South Wales and Victorian properties in November and December.
ATO Deputy Commissioner Michael Cranston said illegally grown tobacco took money outside of Australia’s tax system and into the pockets of criminals.
Growing tobacco in Australia was illegalised 11 years ago, and no commercial tobacco licences have been granted by the ATO since.
More to come.
