An undercover police operation has culminated in the dramatic raid of a convenience store in the Geelong suburb of Leopold, with authorities alleging the business was involved in the sale of illegal tobacco products.
Sting Operation Leads to Raid
Victoria Police confirmed that officers from the Geelong Divisional Response Unit executed a search warrant at the Leopold Convenience Store on Bell Parade on Wednesday, May 15. The raid was the direct result of a targeted, undercover investigation into the suspected sale of illicit tobacco from the premises.
During the search, police seized a significant quantity of what is believed to be illegal tobacco products. The items were taken as evidence and will undergo further examination as part of the ongoing investigation.
Man Charged Following Investigation
A 36-year-old man from the nearby suburb of Corio was arrested at the scene in connection with the alleged offences. He has been charged with dealing with property suspected of being the proceeds of crime.
The accused has been released on bail and is scheduled to appear before the Geelong Magistrates’ Court at a later date. The charges reflect the serious nature of the alleged activities uncovered by the covert police work.
Crackdown on Illicit Tobacco Trade
This raid is part of a broader statewide crackdown on the illegal tobacco trade, which costs the Australian government millions in lost tax revenue and is often linked to organised crime networks. Police have emphasised their commitment to targeting businesses that flout the law.
The undercover operation demonstrates the proactive tactics now being employed by local police units to gather evidence against establishments suspected of selling contraband. Authorities are sending a clear message that such illegal sales will not be tolerated in the community.
Anyone with information about the sale of illegal tobacco or related criminal activity is urged to contact Crime Stoppers. The investigation into the Leopold Convenience Store remains active as police continue their inquiries.
