NSW Police Seize About US$1.9 Million in Illegal Tobacco Products, Including 15,000 Vapes

Dec.01

During a recent routine traffic stop, New South Wales police discovered a large quantity of illegal tobacco and vapes hidden inside a rental truck, including approximately 942,000 cigarettes and more than 15,000 e-cigarettes, with an estimated value of nearly AUD 2 million. The 31-year-old driver was arrested at the scene and the case has now entered judicial proceedings.

Key Points

NSW Police intercepted a rental truck during a routine traffic stop on the Pacific Highway and unexpectedly uncovered a large quantity of suspected illegal tobacco and vaping products.
The vehicle contained approximately 942,000 cigarettes, 15,380 vapes, and 10 kg of loose tobacco, with an estimated value of AUD 1.961 million (around USD 1.9 million).
A 31-year-old man was arrested at the scene, and both the vehicle and all goods were seized.
The suspect has been issued a court attendance notice and is scheduled to appear before Kempsey Local Court on 29 January 2026.

2Firsts, December 1, 2025 — According to the NSW Police Force, a man in New South Wales has been arrested for allegedly transporting illegal tobacco and vaping products, with authorities seizing goods valued at roughly USD 1.9 million (AUD 1,961,300) in the state’s northern region.

According to the police statement, at around 8:40 a.m. on November 27, officers conducted a routine traffic stop on a rental truck traveling along the Pacific Highway near Macleay Valley Way. After administering a roadside breath test, police initiated a further search of the vehicle.

During the search, officers uncovered multiple boxes containing a substantial quantity of illegal tobacco and vape products — including approximately 942,040 cigarettes, 15,380 vapes, and 10 kilograms of tobacco. Police estimate the total value of the seized goods at AUD 1,961,300 (around USD 1.9 million).

The truck and all contraband were confiscated, and the 31-year-old driver was arrested at the scene. He has been issued a court attendance notice and is scheduled to appear in Kempsey Local Court on 29 January 2026.

Cover image source: thecooldown

References:

[1] Man charged, $1.9 million worth of illicit tobacco and vapes seized - Kempsey

Also Read:

[1] Australian Border Force Blocks Massive Vape Shipment Following China Intelligence

[2] Australia Leads COP11 Seminars as Exploding Illicit Tobacco Market Raises Questions

[3] South Australia Issues Closure Orders to 100 Stores over Illicit Tobacco and Vapes

[4] NSW Landlords Could Face Jail or $165,000 Fine for Allowing Illegal Vape and Tobacco Sales

[5] Tasmania, Australia Will Introduce New Laws Targeting Illegal Vape and Tobacco Retailers

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