Chinese man on student visa charged over illegal tobacco imports

Jon Kaila
January 19, 2016
Herald Sun

The Australian Border Force says a the gang is responsible for importing large quantities of illegal tobacco.
A YOUNG Chinese man in Australia on a student visa has been charged with the illegal importation of tobacco into Victoria.
The 24-year-old was intercepted at Adelaide International Airport on January 15 after allegedly being involved in an elaborate organised crime syndicate.
The Australian Border Force said the gang was responsible for importing large quantities of illegal tobacco into Victoria and three other states.
“The ABF will allege in court that the baggage examination that followed revealed evidence of the man’s involvement in the illegal importation of tobacco,” ABF Regional Commander Central Region Rachel Houghton said.
“The ABF takes a serious approach to all revenue evasion attempts and is working tirelessly to stamp out instances where this may occur. ”
After the arrest, officers carried out three raids and seized more than 150 items, including evidence of importing tobacco on an organised scale using multiple names and addresses in Victoria, Queensland, Western Australia and South Australia, the ABF alleged.
“Approximately $50,000 cash and a 2015 Mazda 3 were also seized under proceeds of crime laws,” Ms Houghton said.
The man faced Adelaide Magistrates’ Court yesterday, charged with importing tobacco products with the intention of defrauding revenue.
He was remanded to appear in court again on March 29.
“ABF investigations are ongoing and more charges are possible,” Ms Houghton said.

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