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 1.6 hectares of illegal tobacco plants.
The warrant followed similar searches on New South Wales and Victorian properties in November and December as part of an ongoing investigation. An ATO spokesman said no arrests had been made.
ATO deputy commissioner Michael Cranston said illegally grown tobacco took money outside Australia’s tax system and into the pockets of criminals.
“Those that break the law will be brought to account,” Mr Cranston said. “The ATO collaborates with partner agencies to stamp out criminal activity – if you engage in it, you will be caught.”
He urged residents to be vigilant about their surrounding and consider what could be growing on nearby properties.
“The community can play a role in reducing the illegal tobacco trade by remaining aware of their surroundings,” he said. “If something looks suspicious, contact the police.”
Growing tobacco in Australia was made illegal 11 years ago and no commercial tobacco licences have been granted by the ATO since then.
Illegally grown tobacco is an offence under the Excise Act, which is overseen by the ATO.
