Police shut down Buninyong store over illegal tobacco and vapes
Victoria Police raided a Buninyong store and shut it for 90 days after seizing illegal cigarettes and vapes under a new law.
Police and the VIPER organised crime taskforce carried out a search warrant at a store on Learmonth Street on Wednesday, November 11. Officers arrested two people at the store.
Officers found a large amount of illegal tobacco and vapes. Acting Senior Sergeant Kevin Lubinsky said the raid followed complaints from the community.
People were concerned about illegal supply linked to organised crime. There were also concerns about possible firebombings.
Under new Victorian laws, police can close shops right away if they might be selling or supplying illegal tobacco. After 90 days, police will review the closure.
They will decide if it stays closed for good or if the store can open again.
- 90 days
- Closure duration
- 2
- People arrested
- Learmonth Street, Buninyong
- Location
Why it mattersThis shows police are using new powers to stop illegal tobacco networks. These networks are tied to organised crime. This is happening in regional Victoria.
AustraliaDemonstrates how new Victorian legislation is being deployed to crack down on illegal tobacco sales in local communities.
