Police have put tobacconists in the city on notice, with a series of warrants executed this week resulting in police seizing thousands of items that were allegedly illegally being sold, including nangs and counterfeit cigarettes.
The Melbourne West Neighbourhood Policing team have been investigating tobacconists in the city selling items illegally, following concerns at risk youth were purchasing products freely displayed within the stores.
Two warrants were executed this week at tobacconists on Lygon Street in Carlton and Collins Street in Melbourne.
As a result of the warrants, police seized the following items:
• 1,530 nitrous oxide cannisters (nangs)
• 873 counterfeit cigarettes
• 560 bongs
• 21 ice pipes
• 45 suboxone sachets
• 1200ml of methadone
• 2,737 nicotine vapes
• 57 vape refills
The owners of the tobacconists were not present during the time of the warrants, and police will continue to make enquiries to investigate these matters.
The misuse of nitrous oxide and inhalants is primarily a health issue as its consumption poses a serious health risk to the individual.
In Victoria, it is an offence to supply these substances for human consumption, specifically if it is known or suspected that the person intends to consume the substance.
Retailers and suppliers are required to conduct business activity, in relation to the sale of nitrous oxide, in a responsible manner.
Those engaged in unlawful supply of nitrous oxide for human consumption can face fines in excess of $8000, as well as up to two years imprisonment.
Police urge anyone with information on suspicious activity at tobacconists is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or by submitting an anonymous report online.
Quotes attributed to Melbourne West Neighbourhood Policing Sergeant Matt Jerabek:
“The sale of illegal items such as those seized this week often generate anti-social and further criminal offending to an area, so we are confident this will make a positive impact on community safety.”
“Items such as nangs, methadone and drug paraphernalia can be extremely risky when sold to a vulnerable young person, exposing them to serious health risks and the increased likelihood of further drug use, crime and anti-social behaviour.”
“This should send a very clear message to anyone in the city thinking of selling items illegally for an easy dollar – we have a range of intelligence sources and will be working to detect and disrupt this activity.”
