04/06/2026
The Australian Border Force (ABF) has disrupted a major illicit tobacco and vape operation in the Northern Territory, seizing large quantities of illegal products during a targeted operation in Darwin.
Acting on intelligence, ABF officers executed search warrants on 28 May, supported by the Detector Dog Unit. The operation resulted in the seizure of:
- Over 433,000 illicit cigarettes
- 686 kilograms of loose leaf tobacco
- More than 50,000 disposable vapes
The illicit goods are estimated to represent around $1.8 million in evaded duty and up to $3.7 million in potential criminal profits.
The seizure forms part of Operation GOALFENCE, a broader intelligence-led campaign targeting illicit tobacco supply chains before products reach the black market and Australian communities.
Authorities say the operation highlights the ongoing role of organised crime in the illicit tobacco and vape trade, which continues to undermine legitimate businesses and fund further criminal activity.
Investigations remain ongoing, with the ABF highlighting that intelligence-led operations and specialist capabilities — including detector dogs — are critical in identifying and disrupting these illegal supply networks.
Members of the public are encouraged to report suspected illicit tobacco importation activity to Border Watch http://www.abf.gov.au/borderwatch.