April 15, 2025
Almost 100,000 illegal cigarettes were allegedly seized by Queensland Health officials during raids at two Kingaroy tobacco shops last week.
Police accompanied the Queensland Health team members when they investigated the two businesses.
Illicit tobacco and vape products were allegedly seized at both stores:
• 97,604 illicit cigarettes
• 21.7kg of loose tobacco
• 691 vapes
• 679 tins of nicotine pouches (20 pouches per tin)
• 196 bongs
• 52 ice-pipes
A Queensland Health spokesperson said there was a zero-tolerance approach to the supply of illegal vaping and tobacco products.
“Our strict illicit tobacco laws, backed by harsh penalties and enforcement action, are helping to effectively stop the sale of millions of illegal tobacco and vaping products throughout the State,” the spokesperson said.
“Queensland Health is continuing investigations into two retail businesses in Kingaroy, which may lead to significant penalties issued to the businesses.
“Changes made under the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products and Other Legislation Amendment Regulation 2025 have seen the commencement of significantly larger on-the-spot fines.
“This includes businesses facing fines of up to $161,300 for the supply of illicit tobacco, vaping goods and nicotine pouches.”
Between July 1, 2024. and February 28 this year, more than 15.2 million illicit cigarettes, 172,356 vaping goods, and more than 3.4 tonne of loose tobacco were seized across Queensland.
Suspicions about the sale of illegal tobacco and nicotine products can be reported to Queensland Health for investigation by calling 13-74-68 or online
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