Pubs, barbershops and service stations have been warned they are firmly in authorities’ sights as criminal groups move illicit tobacco into new retail outlets. Customs Minister Julian Hill issued the blunt warning after hundreds of officers raided service stations across five states and the ACT on Tuesday in Australia’s largest operation targeting the illegal tobacco trade. Customs Minister Julian Hill has issued a stark warning to illegal tobacco sellers after officers raided service stations across five states and the ACT on Tuesday. Credit: SunriseHill said the operation was led by the National Disruption Group on Illegal Tobacco, established by the Commonwealth less than a year ago. Hill said each operation helped authorities plan their next moves, including targeting money flows, bank accounts, ATMs and storage facilities.