NDG Operation TEMPEST26 was a three-phased joint agency operation to detect, deter and disrupt illicit tobacco networks that threaten Australia’s borders and the community.
Phase one saw partner agencies collaborate and share critical information and intelligence with the NDG, identifying potential threats, persons of interest and criminal activity within the illicit tobacco networks in Queensland and South Australia.
Information and intelligence supplied in phase one was assessed and triaged through the NDG, identifying a range of opportunities for disruption in the supply chain of illicit tobacco including import, storage, distribution and retail by mid-level criminals and enablers.
This information fed into phase two – the coordinated high visibility week of action, which took place between Monday 23 and Saturday 28 February 2026.
Over 75 locations were targeted, including shopfronts, warehouses and residential properties, with results from the nationally coordinated week of action highlighting the successful approach of NDG coordinating information and intelligence sharing, enforcement, and disruption activities.
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