Officers from the Cairns Highway patrol unit, with assistance from the Cairns Dog Squad, have seized a large amount of illegal tobacco and Australian currency during a traffic intercept on Saturday, August 12, taking a 19-year-old Morayfield man into custody.
It will be alleged at approximately 4pm, a van was travelling above the speed limit along Wilkinson Street when it was intercepted by police.
Officers will further allege they saw large bails of tobacco on the back seat of the van.
Crews called for the specialised assistance of a currency detection dog that confirmed large sums of money were being transported in the van, alongside the tobacco.
A thorough search of the vehicle discovered more than 100kg of illegal tobacco set for the black market and almost $260 000 in currency.
The 19-year-old was charged with possession of tainted property, and possession of tobacco.
He was also issued a traffic infringement notice for exceed speed limit 69 in 60kph zone, and fail to display P plates.
He is due to reappear at Cairns Magistrates Court on October 18.
If you have information for police, contact Policelink by providing information using the online suspicious activity form 24hrs per day at www.police.qld.gov.au/reporting or call 131 444.
Report crime information anonymously via Crime Stoppers. Call 1800 333 000 or report online at www.crimestoppersqld.com.au.
