WA Tackles Illegal Tobacco With New Police Taskforce

Western Australia is taking bold action against illegal tobacco stores that have sparked a wave of violence across Perth and regional communities.

The state government announced a new Department of Health taskforce led by Police Superintendent Steve Post, dubbed the "illicit tobacco tzar." His mission is clear: dismantle the criminal networks terrorizing neighborhoods with fire bombings, arson attacks, and drive-by shootings at convenience stores.

"Get out while you can," Superintendent Post warned those involved in the illegal trade. "We will use the new laws to great effect."

The taskforce will bring together retired police officers and current officers seeking to transition from frontline duties. Premier Roger Cook emphasized that WA Police and Health will work more closely than ever before to stop what he called "tobacco thugs" from terrorizing communities.

The government is drafting new laws to give authorities immediate power to shut down stores selling illegal tobacco products. Police Minister Reece Whitby called this one of the most frustrating gaps in current enforcement, noting that while stores can be fined, they can't yet be closed on the spot.

Three other Australian states have already implemented similar shutdown powers, and WA is following their lead.

The Ripple Effect

The initiative represents a $5 million investment in community safety that extends beyond just tobacco enforcement. Store owners who follow the law will no longer face unfair competition from illegal operations, and neighborhoods won't live in fear of the next firebomb or shooting.

Multiple arrests have already been made, with several kingpins currently behind bars. The new taskforce will strengthen these existing efforts by combining health compliance expertise with police investigative power.

Minister Reece Whitby noted that police have already been "kicking down the doors" with success. The addition of specialized compliance officers will plug the gaps and create sustained pressure on illegal operations.

Health Minister Meredith Hammat described the staffing increase as a "significant uplift," though exact numbers remain confidential to protect taskforce members.

Communities across Western Australia can look forward to safer neighborhoods where legitimate businesses thrive and violent criminals face real consequences.