By Molly Magennis
Hobsons Bay Crime Investigation Unit detectives have charged two men after an investigation into the alleged theft of over $7 million worth of cigarettes.
It is alleged that a B-double trailer containing the cigarettes was stolen from a transport distribution centre in Altona on September 5.
Following an investigation, detectives executed 14 warrants this week and seized a range of items including 190 packets of prohibited import brands of cigarettes, over 400 pouches of loose-leaf tobacco and over 480 cartons of cigarettes.
Nearly $240,000 in cash was also seized, along with a 1.5kg gold ingot and 10 1kg silver ingots, an imitation assault rifle and 25 vials of steroids.
The warrants were executed in a number of suburbs including Altona North, Laverton North and Williamstown.
A 32-year-old Hoppers Crossing man was charged on Tuesday with two counts of theft to the value of approximately $7.3million and failing to provide police with a phone PIN.
He was bailed and will appear at the Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on Friday 3 December.
Another man was also charged with failing to provide police with a phone PIN. The 33-year-old Sunshine resident was also bailed and will appear at Melbourne Magistrates’ Court on 22 September 2022.
The investigation remains ongoing and anyone with information is asked to contact Crime Stoppers on 1800 333 000 or via www.crimestoppersvic.com.au.
