A major police operation targeting criminal activities linked to the illicit tobacco trade in South Australia is in full swing, with law enforcement making significant progress.

Dubbed Operation Eclipse, the initiative is led by the Serious and Organised Crime Branch and is investigating a range of offences including arson, assaults, and money laundering.

The operation, which began after the illegal tobacco activity was first identified in May, has already resulted in multiple arrests and the seizure of significant amounts of cash.

Detective Superintendent Shane Addison, Officer in Charge of the Serious and Organised Crime Branch, has highlighted the coordinated efforts between South Australian police and other agencies, including Victoria Police, in dismantling the criminal networks involved.

“Operation Eclipse has established strong working relationships with Victoria Police and other law enforcement agencies, and we are actively sharing intelligence,” he says. “We will not tolerate criminal behaviour that poses a risk to the community, and we have already made several arrests as part of the operation.”

Police have linked seven arson attacks across the metropolitan area to the illicit tobacco trade. These attacks have targeted vehicles, restaurants, and tobacco retailers. Additionally, numerous incidents involving assaults and standovers have been identified as part of the investigation.

In addition to the two arrests made so far for money laundering and serious criminal trespass, detectives have identified 15 further persons of interest. Thousands of dollars in cash have been seized as evidence.

Operation Eclipse is being conducted in partnership with CBS Tobacco Investigations, the body responsible for regulating tobacco sales in South Australia.

Arson Attacks Linked to Illicit Tobacco Trade:

19 July – Car fire, Glenelg North

30 August – Restaurant fire, Henley Beach Road, Torrensville

7 September – Restaurant fire, Main North Road, Enfield

9 September – Vehicle fire, Walkley Heights

11 September – Vehicle fire, Mawson Lakes

14 September – Business break-in and arson, Port Road, Hindmarsh

30 September – Business fire, Henley Beach Road, Brooklyn Park

Police are urging anyone with information regarding these incidents or illicit tobacco activities to come forward. Further arrests are expected as investigations continue.