Illegally packaged cigarettes, loose leaf tobacco and nicotine e-cigarettes (vapes) with an estimated street value of $32,000 will be destroyed after public health inspections raided two premises in Macquarie Fields.
Environmental health and tobacco compliance officers from the South Western Sydney Local Health District (SWSLHD) public health unit inspected the premises in November following tip-offs from the public.
Inspectors found loose leaf tobacco, illegally packaged cigarettes (without appropriate warnings) and a large quantity of e-cigarettes containing nicotine at two premises.
The products were seized by the officers under the Public Health (Tobacco) Act 2008 and Poisons and Therapeutic Goods Act 1966.
Director of Population Health at SWSLHD, Mandy Williams, said the seizure was a typical range of products that are found in retail outlets.
“This latest raid is just one example of the work SWSLHD are taking to tackle the issue of illegal tobacco and vapes containing nicotine, and we thank the community for informing us of this unlawful activity,” Ms Williams said.
“We have successfully seized much larger quantities of vapes in recent months, including illegal product at Tahmoor valued at $132,093 and Wetherill Park at $135,747.
“Continuing compliance activity is a necessary part of sending messages to retailers that these vape products are illegal and potentially harmful.”
NSW Health is encouraging the public to report the illegal sales of nicotine vapes (other than by pharmacies).
Non-compliance reports assist with ensuring inspectors are deployed to areas where the harm is the greatest.
Reports can be made through the NSW Health online reporting form on the NSW Health website.
