Border Operations 7/08/2026
A 42-year-old Victorian man with a previous criminal history has today (7 August 2026) been sentenced to 4 years and 6 months jail in relation to multiple large-scale illicit tobacco importations at the County Court of Victoria.
The four illegal shipments, which arrived in Victoria between February and November 2018 contained an approximate combined total of 20.2 million illicit cigarettes and 8.7 tonnes of loose-leaf tobacco, representing a potential duty evaded of approximately AUD $23.8 million.
The consignments were then further mis-declared on customs declarations as genuine imports containing rugs, curtains, instant noodles and furniture.
Investigations conducted by the ABF-led Illicit Tobacco Taskforce (ITTF) linked the offender to leasing storage facilities and factories, hiring transport to move the tobacco products, and communicating with offshore entities, for the importation, distribution and supply of illicit tobacco.
The man was subsequently arrested at Melbourne International Airport on 21 December 2019 after arriving from Indonesia and charged in relation to the tobacco smuggling offending.
The man was charged with:
- Attempt to possess tobacco products knowing that the goods were imported with intent to defraud the revenue, contrary to sub-section 11.1(1) of the Criminal Code (Cth) and sub-section 233BABAD(2) of the Customs Act 1901(Cth).
- Import tobacco products with the intention of defrauding the revenue, contrary to sub-section 233BABAD(1) of Customs Act 1901 (Cth).
He was sentenced to 4 years and 6 months in jail and directed to serve 2 years and 6 months before he is eligible for parole.
ABF Commander Illicit Tobacco and Vape Enforcement Greg Dowse said the outcome sends a clear message that those who attempt to profit from illicit tobacco smuggling face significant consequences.
"Criminals involved in illicit tobacco offending may believe the potential profits outweigh the risks, however this sentence demonstrates that illicit tobacco is not a low-risk, high-reward crime, and those responsible can face sustained investigation, prosecution and significant terms of imprisonment", Commander Dowse said.
"Protecting our borders is more than just stopping prohibited goods, it is about disrupting the criminal networks behind them. The message is clear: the consequences of serious customs offending can be substantial, as this sentencing has demonstrated."