An Australia Post manager is one of three people to have been charged after allegedly importing illicit tobacco and vapes through the Australian border.
A multi-agency strike team of 41 officers within federal and NSW Police forces uncovered an organised crime syndicate operating across Sydney.
This year in June, an investigation exposed an alleged importation of large quantities of illicit tobacco and vapes by a 62-year-old man, using his trusted insider position in a senior role at a post office in Sydney’s north.
NSW Police said in a statement that the investigation was supported by information supplied by Australia Post.
Cash, vapes and millions of tobacco sticks seized
On Tuesday, investigators executed three search warrants at Berowra Heights, in Sydney’s north, and Zetland and Banksmeadow, in the city’s inner south and east, as well as conducting a targeted vehicle stop at Banksmeadow.
Police seized $60,470 in cash, 3,365,800 sticks of illicit tobacco, 14,040 vapes, 9,049 tobacco tin pouches, 648 sachets of rolling tobacco and electronic devices.
The 62-year-old post office manager was charged with commercial quantities of vapes and tobacco and granted conditional bail. He is due to face Hornsby Local Court on November 18.
A 36-year-old man was charged with commercial possession of vapes and granted conditional bail. He is due to appear at the Downing Centre Local Court on November 16.
While another 36-year-old man, who was refused bail, was charged with possessing commercial quantities of vapes and tobacco and dealing with the proceeds of crime.
Australia Post responds to investigation
An Australia Post spokesperson explained to Yahoo News Australia that the 62-year-old post office manager is employed at a licensed post office franchise, not a direct employee of Australia Post.
“Australia Post plays an important role delivering essential services and acts decisively when there is irregular activity identified in our network,” the statement read.
“This is a very serious matter and we have worked collaboratively with police agencies. We will continue to provide our full support for the investigation.
“The individual involved is not currently working at the post office.
“Given the matter is before the Courts it would not be appropriate for us to comment further.”
Police warn illicit tobacco profits fuel organised crime
NSW Police Drug and Firearms Squad Commander Detective Superintendent John Watson said organised crime groups relied on trusted insiders to help facilitate their activities.
“The illicit tobacco and vape market remain a lucrative revenue stream for organised crime syndicates operating across Australia,” he said.
“Those profits often fund other serious criminal activities.”
AFP Detective Superintendent Peter Fogarty said the illicit tobacco trade generates millions of dollars for criminal networks.
“The millions of dollars generated through the illicit tobacco trade fuels criminal networks which cause real harm in Australian communities,” he said.
“Trusted insiders can be a key part of this illicit trade, so disrupting them, slamming shut these backdoors into our country can inflict real damage on these criminal networks.”
Anyone with relevant information about organised crime is urged to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or visit their website.
Extracted in full from: https://au.news.yahoo.com/australia-post-manager-charged-in-major-police-bust-as-wads-of-cash-seized-003801743.html
