The Australian Border Force has thwarted an attempt to smuggle $12.4 million worth of vapes into the country through sea cargo containers.
During the operation, almost 400,000 vapes were seized from three shipping containers following the identification of anomalies in the shipping consignments.
The total vape haul amounted to 389,880 units with an estimated street value exceeding $12.4 million. The containers, all originating from Asia, contained various vaping products.
ABF Acting Commander of Trade (East) Asha Patwardhan emphasized the need to prevent the illegal importation of vaping products into the country to disrupt criminal activities.
Patwardhan highlighted the addictive nature of the nicotine-containing disposable vapes, expressing concern over their appeal to younger demographics and associated health risks.