Chop-chop cops given expanded powers in illegal tobacco battle
Shire policing
There have not yet been any raids by Queensland Health officials on tobacco shops in the council areas of Douglas Shire and Mareeba during the most recent State Government push to crack down on illegal tobacco sales, a spokesman for the Cairns and Hinterland Hospital and Health Service says.
Health Minister Tim Nicholls this month announced a government blitz on the sale of illicit tobacco and illegal vapes, saying authorities had the power to shut down operations following new legislation introduced to State Parliament.
Newsport contacted Queensland Police following the announcement, but was redirected to the CHHHS, which is taking the lead on the illegal tobacco crackdown.
But there have so far been no raids carried out in either Douglas Shire Council or Mareeba Shire Council, the CHHHS spokesman said.
The new laws increase maximum penalties to more than $160,000 and a year in jail for landlords who knowingly allow illegal activity to take place.
And Queensland Health has also been given the authority to employ undercover officers to investigate illegal operations.
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