The Australian Border Force (ABF) led Illicit tobacco National Disruption Group (NDG) has sourced valuable intelligence and coordinated disruption activity in Western Australia as part of a national Task Force Morpheus day of action targeting organised crime involvement in the illicit tobacco trade.
Task Force Morpheus is a joint, cross-jurisdictional law enforcement partnership designed to disrupt and dismantle organised criminal activity linked to OMCGs operating across Australia
On Thursday 8 October 2026 the NDG coordinated disruption activity led by WA Health and WA Police on five tobacco retail premises, targeting businesses linked to organised crime interests within the illicit tobacco market.
The operation forms part of national efforts to target organised crime groups seeking to profit from the illicit tobacco trade and reinvest those proceeds into wider criminal activity.
The coordinated activity resulted in the seizure of over 1,755 cigarettes, 175 grams of loose-leaf tobacco and 42 illicit vapes, with one application under assessment for a short-term closure order.
The operation generated significant intelligence outcomes, including the identification of multiple persons of interest and new insights into supply and fulfilment methods used within the illicit tobacco market.
Acting Commander Illicit Tobacco and Vape Enforcement Daniel Strack said intelligence gathered during activities such as this are as critical as the seizures themselves.
“Information and intelligence gathered from this operation has provided significant insight into the networks, associates and supply chains supporting organised crime and helps inform future disruption and enforcement action.
“Organised crime groups continue to exploit the illicit tobacco trade as a source of revenue to support broader criminal activity,” Acting Commander Strack said.
“This operation highlights the strength of Commonwealth, state law enforcement, and regulatory agencies working together to identify and disrupt criminal networks.
“We’re combining our respective powers and capabilities and making it harder for organised crime groups to operate and profit.
“The illicit tobacco trade is not a victimless crime. Every purchase of illicit tobacco helps sustain an underground economy that benefits organised crime and undermines legitimate businesses.”
Anyone with information regarding illicit tobacco activity is encouraged to contact Crime Stoppers.
