Major illegal tobacco network dismantled; criminal assets seized

The Australian Border Force Illicit Tobacco Task Force and ACT Policing have disrupted a major criminal network suspected of importing and distributing millions of illicit cigarettes across Australia. In Operation ONDINA, authorities seized over 3.4 million cigarettes, luxury goods, and restrained bank accounts and two properties valued at approximately AUD $5 million total. Two unlawful non-citizens were identified during warrant executions in Sydney and have been detained and transported to Villawood Immigration Detention Centre pending review of their visa status. According to Home Affairs, investigations into the transnational organised crime network remain ongoing, with further enforcement activity expected. This operation demonstrates the Australian Border Force's commitment to disrupting illegal tobacco trade networks operating in Australia.