Illicit tobacco products seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit

Hundreds of thousands of dollars worth of illicit tobacco and vapes have been seized on the Sunshine Coast following the introduction of stricter laws this year.

Illicit tobacco products seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit (PHU). Picture - contributed.

Hundreds of thousands of dollars of illicit tobacco products have been seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit (PHU) in the first three months of 2024.

From January 1 to March 31, 2024, the Public Health Unit undertook 16 inspections of retailers suspected of illicit tobacco supply and issued seven on-the-spot-fines.

This resulted in 384,930 cigarettes and 34kg of loose tobacco being seized worth $331,429.

In that same period, the Public Health Unit received 36 complaints about potential breaches from the community.

Illicit tobacco products seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit (PHU). Picture – contributed.

The state government introduced the Tobacco and Other Smoking Products (Vaping) and Other Legislation Amendment Bill this year.

The new reforms introduce tough new measures against the supply and commercial possession of illicit nicotine products, including vapes and their accessories.

Minister for Health Shannon Fentiman said it was about keeping Queenslanders safe.

“Our Public Health Unit has delivered successful results in undertaking inspections and removing thousands of illicit cigarettes from our community,” she said.

Illicit tobacco products seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit (PHU). Picture – contributed.

“Our government is tackling this illegal trade head-on, which is why we have also introduced strong law reforms to better protect Queenslanders.

“We know vaping is marketed towards our children, and our government is steadfast in our approach to keeping illicit nicotine out of the hands of young people.”

Member for Nicklin Rob Skelton said it was fantastic news for the local community.

Illicit tobacco products seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit (PHU). Picture – contributed.

“Illicit tobacco and vapes are harmful for everyone, especially young Queenslanders,” he said.

“Our laws are protecting Queenslanders and holding those who choose to sell these illicit products to account.”

Member for Caloundra Jason Hunt agreed.

“Our measures are keeping illicit tobacco and vaping products out of the hands of our young people,” he said.

“We know these products carry all manner of harmful ingredients and it’s important we update laws to ensure we can continue to keep people safe.”

Hundreds of thousands of dollars of illicit tobacco products have been seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit (PHU) in the first three months of 2024. Picture – contributed.

Originally published as Illicit tobacco products seized by the Sunshine Coast Public Health Unit